Kang Hoon-sik: "Ha Jung-woo's Candidacy Is for Him to Decide, Not the President or the Party"

by Song Seungseop

Published 15 Apr.2026 15:52(KST)

Updated 15 Apr.2026 16:49(KST)

Chief Secretary Kang Hoon-sik's Briefing on April 15

Kang Hoonshik, Chief Presidential Secretary, stated on the 15th regarding rumors of Ha Jungwoo, Chief of AI Future Planning, running for the Busan Buk-gu Gap constituency, "It is a decision that Ha must make himself; it is not something for the president or the party to decide."

During a briefing at the Chunchugwan press room that afternoon, Kang was asked about Ha's potential candidacy. He responded, "The president needs his aides, and wishes for them to remain by his side," and added, "From the party's perspective, I believe there is also a need for talented individuals."

Kang Hoonshik, Chief Secretary, is answering reporters' questions after finishing a briefing on the results of the Special Presidential Envoy for Strategic Economic Cooperation activities at the Blue House press conference room on the 15th. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

Kang further stated, "Ultimately, it is an issue that depends on Ha's decision," and continued, "This is not a matter where Ha will decide to run simply because he is told to, nor will he refrain from running just because someone tells him not to. His own intentions must be clear first."

Recently, ruling party figures, including Representative Jeong Cheongrae, have openly called for Ha to participate in the Busan Buk-gu Gap by-election. In response, President Lee stated in a public setting on the 9th, "There is much work to be done, so you should not be swayed just because someone approaches you with an offer."