[Interview] Jo Hae-jin: "A Pragmatic Approach to Abolishing the Ministry of Gender Equality... Strong Trust with Yoon"

Rep. Jo Hae-jin of the People Power Party. Photo by Yoon Dong-ju doso7@

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[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunju Lee] The first official candidate to throw their hat into the ring for the People Power Party floor leader election is three-term lawmaker Jo Hae-jin. In a phone interview on the 5th, Jo stated, "I decided to run to realize the long-pursued values and vision of changing the conservative party and the National Assembly's structure." Regarding some views that he is running to check the influence of key Yoon Seok-yeol insiders (Yoonhaekgwan), Jo said, "I am not such a disposable item," adding, "I am following my path based on my reflections and accumulated thoughts on practical politics and the conservative party."

Below is a Q&A with lawmaker Jo.

- The government reorganization plan seems to be the first test for the new floor leader. What are your thoughts on the contentious issue of abolishing the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family?

= From the Presidential Transition Committee's standpoint, it seems they do not intend to make major changes to the government organization, so the contentious issues will relatively decrease. If even partial changes are made, negotiations will be necessary.

The issue of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family must ultimately be resolved pragmatically. It should not be biased by justification or ideology. Both our party (People Power Party) and the Democratic Party agree on the need for policies that improve women's status and consider women. There could be common ground on which department and organizational structure would be best to handle these matters.

There is also the question of whether the department must be named specifically as the Ministry of Women. What is important is confirming a consensus that women are valued and that efforts are made to support them. I believe there is a point where both sides can approach each other. Regarding family issues, the Democratic Party is not opposed at all, so I think adjustments can be made.

- What is your relationship with President-elect Yoon Seok-yeol?

= During the election period, the first group I helped with was the 'Straight Talk Committee.' That shows how comfortably I communicate with the President-elect, always speaking frankly when necessary. I have maintained close communication with him and still do. In terms of trust, I believe I am as trusted by the President-elect as anyone else. I sincerely hope the new government succeeds and am someone he can trust and talk to. We are also senior and junior from the same university department.

- How is the composition and preparation for the confirmation hearings?

= First, there is a consensus across both ruling and opposition parties that reform is needed for confirmation hearings. Especially, the Democratic Party has proposed many institutional and legal improvements to rationally adjust the hearings. If I become floor leader, I will focus on this issue to improve the hearings before they begin, aiming for rational hearings. Even if time constraints prevent the passage of laws, we will proceed with that intent. The Democratic Party also deeply considers avoiding hearings that aim to damage reputations or expose scandals and has proposed several bills. We will ensure the hearings fulfill their intended purpose.

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