Justice Minister Cho Kuk's First Public Engagement Four Days After Special Pardon on Liberation Day

Cho Kuk, the former representative of the Justice Innovation Party, who was released due to a special pardon on Liberation Day, will make his first public appearance on the 18th. On that day at 2 PM, he plans to visit the tomb of former President Kim Dae-jung at the National Seoul Memorial Cemetery to pay his respects.

On the 17th, the Innovation Party announced through the press that "former representative Cho will visit the National Cemetery to mark the 16th anniversary of President Kim's passing." This marks his official activity just three days after being pardoned on the 15th.

Possibility of Starting the Reintegration Process

In the political arena, speculation has arisen that Cho will begin the reintegration process into the Justice Innovation Party immediately after his visit to pay respects.

It is reported that the reintegration methods include both visiting the central party office to submit documents and online applications. The leadership of the Innovation Party has stated that they will proceed with the procedures according to the party’s constitution and regulations, and they plan to make a final decision regarding his return after reporting to the Supreme Council and confirming the schedule for the national convention.

Currently, the Innovation Party is discussing the issue of holding an early national convention and adjusting the leadership tenure, and it appears that the restoration of the "Cho Kuk system" will also be reviewed in this process.

Political Ripple Effects and Future Steps

If Cho is successful in reintegrating, the impact on the political scene is expected to be significant. The People Power Party anticipates that the decision to grant a pardon has sparked backlash from the youth, indicating plans to initiate a parliamentary hearing. Conversely, there are analyses within the ruling party suggesting that it may strengthen the unity of its support base.

After reintegrating, Cho is considering a schedule to meet with supporters across the country. Visiting the National 5·18 Democratic Cemetery in Gwangju is being prioritized, and external activities such as book concerts or television appearances are also being planned. However, it has been reported that for the time being, he intends to refrain from formal contact with political figures.

Having previously served as the Minister of Justice and Chief of Civil Affairs at the Blue House, Cho is a former professor at Seoul National University’s Law School and has been out of the political spotlight after going through several trials. With this pardon serving as a stepping stone for his return, there is keen interest in how his actions will influence the political landscape ahead of next year’s local elections and by-elections.

Image Source: Former Representative Cho Kuk / News1, News1