Lee Cheol-hee "Abolishing the Ministry of Gender Equality Pledge Requires Social Discussion... No to Division and Incitement of Anger"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] Lee Cheol-hee, Senior Secretary for Political Affairs at the Blue House, cautioned against division and incitement of anger regarding the pledge to abolish the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, which has been raised mainly by the opposition, saying, "It would be good if a decision is made through social debate and discussion."

On the morning of the 8th, Lee appeared on BBS Radio's 'Park Kyung-soo's Morning Journal' and said, "I hope discussions do not proceed in a way that constantly divides specific groups and pits them against each other, or that one side incites anger against the other side."

He added, "Since it is a pledge presented by presidential candidates, we cannot intervene immediately, but since such a pledge has been made, I hope sufficient social debate and discussion will take place before a decision is made."

In response to the host's question about whether 'conflict and division' refers to gender issues, he said, "Not only that, but for any social agenda, I hope discussions are not conducted by targeting and denying the other side," adding, "If you approach it with the equation 'I am right and the other side is absolutely wrong,' discussions will not work."

Regarding criticism that the Blue House was not firm about the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions rally held last weekend, he said, "I find it hard to agree that we were not firm, and I also disagree with the idea that we overlooked it because they are a supportive group," and rebutted, "We consistently said such rallies are not allowed, and even the Prime Minister visited in person with Director Jeong Eun-kyung to request restraint, and the President also expressed such intentions multiple times."

At the same time, he said, "It is true that the overall atmosphere has somewhat relaxed," adding, "There is a mood of 'Isn't it okay to hold rallies around this time?' so I think we need to proactively restrain ourselves where necessary and be cautious where needed, and seek cooperation."

Regarding the recent resignation of Special Prosecutor Park Young-soo, who was suspected of involvement as a 'fake seafood businessman,' he said, "He behaved somewhat inappropriately," but added, "It is clear that he resigned because of this case, but it is also true that he had expressed fatigue and intention to resign even before this."

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