Jin Joong-kwon on Chu Mi-ae's No Charges: "She Drank Alcohol but Was Not Drunk Driving"

Minister of Justice Choo Mi-ae is responding to questions at the plenary meeting of the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee held on the 23rd at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Juhee] Former Dongyang University professor Jin Joong-kwon criticized the prosecution's decision not to indict regarding the allegations of extended military leave for Minister of Justice Choo Mi-ae's son, likening it to the phrase "I drank alcohol, but it is not drunk driving."

On the 29th, Jin posted on his Facebook, saying, "I made the call, but it was not an improper request. I drank alcohol, but it is not drunk driving."

It was confirmed that Minister Choo had given the contact information of a military unit officer to her aide in 2017 to extend her son Seo Mo (27)'s military leave, but she was not indicted.

In response, Jin pointed out, "There are two main points in this case: First, even if a minister lies to the public, they are not dismissed. Second, the effects sought by the prosecution reform are becoming apparent."

According to media reports, the Seoul Eastern District Prosecutors' Office dismissed charges against Minister Choo, her son Seo, and the former aide who made the inquiry call to the military unit on the 28th.

The prosecution stated, "Based on the investigation, it is difficult to see that there was any deception or external pressure during the process of applying for and using sick leave or other leave as alleged," and added, "(Seo's) failure to return to the unit is also due to approved leave and does not constitute military absence."

However, the prosecution disclosed KakaoTalk conversations between Minister Choo and the aide, stating, "It is acknowledged that the Minister of Justice and the aide communicated via KakaoTalk messages over two days regarding the extension of the son's sick leave and regular leave." However, "there is no clear evidence that Minister Choo was directly involved in the request."

Meanwhile, Minister Choo expressed regret over the non-indictment decision, saying, "I sincerely apologize for causing concern to the public due to baseless and indiscriminate political attacks," and added, "I will devote myself to completing the prosecution reform."

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