Cheong Minjeong Secretary: "Until the Passage of Power Institution Reform Bill... Cho Kuk Endures Family Ruin Pain"

Kwang-chul Lee, Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs (right) [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Son Sun-hee] Lee Kwang-cheol, Secretary for Civil Affairs at the Blue House, commented on the recent passage of the National Intelligence Service Act, the High-ranking Officials' Crime Investigation Agency (PCA) Act, and the Police Act through the National Assembly on the 13th, stating, "There were countless pains and sacrifices that cannot be adequately described by the word 'ordeal' until we reached this point," and added, "I especially record the level of suffering akin to the annihilation of a family (멸문지화, 滅門之禍) experienced by former Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs Cho Kuk and his family."

On the same day, Lee posted on his social media, "I was taught that a secretary has no voice and have worked accordingly," but also wrote a few special reflections as the secretary in charge of reforming power institutions.

Lee said, "What was most painful was the tragic death of the late investigator Baek Jae-young," and continued, "I slowly tried to gauge what kind of situation he was forced into and what psychological state he was in during the ten days from November 22, 2019, when he went down to the Ulsan District Prosecutors' Office for questioning, until his extreme choice on December 1. I felt gut-wrenching pain and anger."

He added, "Compared to others, it may be insignificant, but my name has also been mentioned in the media several times, and my status as a suspect has not yet been resolved," and claimed, "I firmly believe that his death, my suspect status, and various other incidents would not have occurred if this administration had not pursued reforms of power institutions such as the prosecution." Lee was investigated as a suspect by prosecutors in January regarding allegations of the Blue House's interference in the Ulsan mayoral election and directed investigations.

Lee stated, "Now, the legislated systems must enable the public to feel the changes," and said, "I will do my best as a secretary to fulfill this duty so that the progress made this time becomes a solid foundation for further progress, and assist President Moon Jae-in."

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