□ September 4, 2019 (Mon.)

□ Venue: Grand Conference Hall at Seoul Cosmetics

■ Lee Hae-chan, chairman of the DPK

Justice Minister nominee Cho Guk clarified multiple facts in detail at a recent press conference, which has caused those who watched the live broadcast to reassess their take on the nominee. Prior to the press conference those who were against his appointment considerably exceeded those who were in favor. However, according to a public poll released yesterday, the margin of difference has narrowed to 1.5 percent, which means public opinion has sharply changed, thereby decreasing the disparity between support and opposition to Cho’s nomination. 

In addition, Liberty Korea Party lawmakers from the Legislation and Judiciary Committee held a press conference in the same building where the nominee’s press conference was held. However, they failed to put forth new information or attract much public attention as evidenced by low audience ratings. As a result, the LKP members’ press conference ended one hour earlier than scheduled. During their press conference, an LKP lawmaker made various allegations regarding nominee Cho’s daughter’s student record. And yet, student records are private information not allowed to be disclosed under school law, in order to protect the privacy of students. 

There are now three days left before a potential hearing must be held. Therefore, the LKP should cooperate in regards to holding a parliamentary hearing for the nominee. I think three days will suffice for the hearing. If the LKP agrees on a hearing, the ruling Democratic Party of Korea will make the utmost efforts to persuade witnesses to attend the hearing and bypass the five-day duration prior to summons. During the remaining three days, as the ruling party, the DPK will make our best efforts to hold the hearing and produce desirable results.