Cheong Wa Dae: "I Was Unaware of Yong Hye-in’s Press Conference; We Are Watching the Situation Closely"

[Financial News] Hong Ik-pyo, Cheong Wa Dae’s senior political affairs secretary, said on the 10th regarding Yong Hye-in’s press conference—in which the nominee for minister of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family categorically denied the allegations against her and said she would retain her proportional-representation seat—"We are carefully watching how the public will respond."
Hong appeared that day on YTN Radio’s “Lee Dong-hyung’s Head-on Showdown.” Asked by the host how he viewed Yong’s press conference, he replied, "I didn’t know she was holding a press conference either. I saw it later," and made the remark.
Hong stated, "Various concerns from the public, as well as different opinions within the Democratic Party of Korea, have been conveyed to us, and I understand that those points have also been conveyed to the nominee."
Asked whether the president might withdraw the nomination, he said, "There has been no major change from our previous position so far." However, he explained, "It is also true that many concerns from inside and outside the administration have been conveyed through our information channels. In particular, many have come from the ruling party, so we are watching the situation closely." He added, "Since the president returned home today, he has received reports even while abroad, but we need to discuss the matter once again."
Regarding the controversy over allegations, raised recently mainly by the opposition, that the president is seeking another term, Hong said, "If the chief of staff or the senior political affairs secretary goes out and says about another term, ‘It is impossible, and we have never considered it,’ those are not things they can say without the president’s permission, are they?" He added, "If people keep asking, ‘Why doesn’t the president say it directly?’ then the advisers would have no reason to exist."
Hong said, "Going forward, Cheong Wa Dae also needs to make greater efforts to communicate with the public and engage in dialogue with a more humble attitude." He added, "It seems that President Lee also intends to communicate directly on these matters when the opportunity arises."
President Lee is reportedly highly likely to hold a press conference with the public before Chuseok. Hong said, "The president will decide the timing and format after discussing the specific details," adding, "I think there will probably be one before the holiday, Chuseok."
[email protected] Choi Jong-geun Reporter