Hong Nam-ki: "Do Our Best to Perform Duties According to the Intent of the Personnel Authority"... Choo Kyung-ho: "Political Show"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyemin] Hong Nam-ki, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, appeared before the National Assembly's Special Committee on Budget and Accounts on the 4th and stated, "I will do my best to perform my duties as Deputy Prime Minister in accordance with the intentions of the appointing authority." Although he expressed his intention to resign at the National Assembly the previous day, he indirectly conveyed his intention to retain his position after President Moon Jae-in rejected his resignation.

Earlier, Choo Kyung-ho, the People Power Party floor leader of the Budget and Accounts Committee, reprimanded Deputy Prime Minister Hong during a procedural speech. He said, "If you insist on resigning despite the rejection, that is an order, and if you accept the rejection and continue, (publicly expressing your intention to resign) is an irresponsible act," criticizing it as "a sloppy political show." He added, "We have removed all budget review questions. We see no need to question a minister who is about to resign," sharpening his remarks.

In response, Deputy Prime Minister Hong explained again, "There have been various discussions regarding the major shareholder requirements for capital gains tax on stock transfers, and ultimately the current system was maintained. This is different from what I have consistently advocated, so I spoke up myself." He continued, "Regarding the controversy over the past two or three months, someone needed to respond sincerely and responsibly, so I conveyed my intention to step down."

He emphasized, "I expressed my resignation sincerely, and it is deeply regrettable to call it a political show. I want to reiterate that there was no such intention."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

However, Representative Choo did not relent in his criticism, saying, "It is truly regrettable to express an intention to resign at the National Assembly just as budget review is about to begin," and called it "an attitude that disregards the National Assembly."

Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun stated, "I was aware of the expression of intention regarding the confusion during the policy coordination process, and the President judged that this matter was not something the Deputy Prime Minister should be responsible for." He added, "I consider this issue closed, and I hope the committee members will continue to discuss state affairs well with the Deputy Prime Minister as before," summarizing the situation.

Prime Minister Chung said, "Originally, party-government consultations are not just occasions to confirm agreement on major issues between the party and the government. Differences of opinion can exist, and there are often cases where opinions differ," adding, "The function is to coordinate and create a unified front." He further stated, "Even if there is controversy during that process, it is inappropriate to escalate it into a major problem."

He seemed to be mindful of Deputy Prime Minister Hong as he said, "Both responsible government ministers and the party should openly and sufficiently consult and reach agreements, and once that is done, they must accept it," adding, "And the correct attitude is to do one's best to make the policy successful."

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