Hwang Hee Actively Defends Against Allegations and Replies to Comments on Conspiracy Theory: "If Plot Is Revealed, Duty Soldiers Should Be Punished"

Hwang Hee Explains "TV Chosun Did It First" Amid Controversy Over Naming On-Duty Soldier
Responds to Netizens' Criticism with "Know the Facts Before Speaking"

Hwang Hee, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, stated on the 10th at the National Assembly Communication Office that the military leave period of Minister of Justice Choo Mi-ae's son, Seo Mo, followed proper legal procedures. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Yeon-ju] Democratic Party lawmaker Hwang Hee has come under fire for mentioning the real name of the duty soldier who raised allegations related to Minister of Justice Choo Mi-ae's son, and has launched a defensive response against the criticism.

Earlier, on the 12th, Hwang posted on his Facebook mentioning the duty soldier's real name, stating, "The basis for the People Power Party's accusation against Minister Choo is the tip-off from the duty soldier," and added, "A thorough investigation is necessary."

He further emphasized, "The public will thoroughly investigate whether the purpose and intent of that force is simply to block prosecutorial reform or to once again split South Korea into two, sow division, and incite confusion," adding, "The forces that divide the people, waste national power, and plunge the country into chaos must be uncovered and eradicated."

This sparked strong criticism not only from opposition parties but also from former Democratic Party lawmaker Geum Tae-seop and former Dongyang University professor Jin Joong-kwon. Netizens also criticized lawmaker Hwang for revealing the informant's identity in the comments.

In response to the controversy, Hwang revised the duty soldier's name to "Corporal Hyun." He also changed expressions such as "sole perpetrator" and "accomplice forces" to "simple tip-off" and "political conspiracy forces."

While actively responding to public criticism, Hwang reiterated suspicions about the background of "Corporal Hyun."

Hwang replied to comments left by netizens on his Facebook. When one netizen argued that "whistleblowers should be protected," Hwang responded, "It is neither a whistleblower case nor true; all has been revealed. Please understand properly before speaking."

Regarding comments pointing out his mention of the duty soldier's real name, he countered, "This information has already been fully disclosed by the media, and the individual has spoken publicly. I did not reveal the real name; TV Chosun did so when attacking Minister Choo with false information."

Minister of Justice Choo Mi-ae arriving and moving at the Government Seoul Office on the afternoon of the 11th to attend the major issues meeting chaired by Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun. [Image source=Yonhap News]

In an interview with a media outlet, Hwang explained, "TV Chosun openly broadcasted everything, and the media wrote the real name. Did I disclose it? Everyone knows that Mr. Hyun is Hyun ○○."

He added, "Saying I revealed the real name is just an attempt to attack me. Mr. Hyun's messages are becoming stronger and coming out through various interviews. Honestly, it's malicious."

He maintained a consistent stance, saying, "If conspiracy is proven, Mr. Hyun should be punished," and "The background must be uncovered."

Meanwhile, on the 13th, Minister Choo posted an apology regarding the special treatment allegations surrounding her son, Seo, but dismissed calls for her resignation from some quarters.

In her Facebook post that day, Minister Choo said, "I sincerely apologize to the public for causing concern over my son's military service period," adding, "My son is fully cooperating with the prosecution's investigation. The prosecution must serve only the public's order to uncover the substantive truth without being influenced by anyone."

She stated, "I have upheld principles in the face of any adversity, and I will continue to protect them as if my life depends on it," adding, "This incident has made me reflect on myself. I will examine my attitude more humbly and consider it more deeply."

She concluded, "Fulfilling the task of prosecutorial reform without wavering is the will of the people and my fateful responsibility," and "I will surely complete prosecutorial reform."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.