Cho Kuk "Tolerate Unfavorable Public Opinion? It's Minimal Self-Defense"

"Why I Published 'Kkoturi Japgi Hae': A Self-Questioning
Also Asking, 'Is the Prosecutor's Indictment the Final Truth?'"

Former Minister of Justice Cho Kuk. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Juhee] Former Minister of Justice Cho Kuk responded to the flood of criticism over the publication of his memoir "Cho Kuk's Time," calling it "nitpicking" and stating that it was "a measure for minimal self-defense."

On the 1st, Cho posted on his Facebook, "Since the book's publication, there has been nitpicking from the political circles and the media, so I am responding to this," and posted his answers in the form of responses to five questions.

Regarding the criticism of "Why publish a book with one-sided claims?" Cho said, "This book is more of a 'record' than a 'claim.' Since the second half of 2019, the media has indiscriminately reported the prosecution's one-sided claims and unconfirmed allegations without even maintaining 'mechanical balance.' Therefore, this book is a belated but minimal act of self-defense."

In response to the criticism, "Why speak through a book after refusing to testify during the prosecution's investigation?" he said, "Please read pages 283 to 285 of the book before asking such questions," adding, "I note that those who ask such questions did not criticize Representative Hwang Kyo-ahn when he refused to testify."

Pages 283 to 285 of the book mentioned by Cho contain details about his exercise of the right to remain silent throughout the prosecution's investigation and court proceedings after resigning as Minister of Justice. Cho pointed out that when former Liberty Korea Party (now People Power Party) leader Hwang Kyo-ahn refused to testify during the police investigation related to the National Assembly fast-track clash incident, the atmosphere was contrastingly different from the criticism he faced when he exercised his right to remain silent.

Regarding the criticism that he only offers excuses rather than reflections on matters for which he was convicted, Cho retorted, "Is the prosecution's indictment the ultimate truth?" and added, "Such absurd criticism that denies the principles of a democratic judicial system is not worth responding to."

Addressing the criticism that there are other motives such as trying to influence the ruling party's presidential race by the timing of the publication, he questioned, "I am a prisoner confined behind a glass wall; I do not know with whom I should discuss and decide the timing of publication. Are you suggesting it would be better to release it after the Democratic Party presidential primary begins?"

He continued, "Are you telling me to continue enduring public opinion formed unfavorably by the collusive attacks of the prosecution, media, and judiciary cartel?" and emphasized, "I have apologized several times for political and moral responsibilities. However, I will contest the legal responsibilities. I will devote myself to sincerely participating in the trials ahead while clarifying and appealing."

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