Former Ethics Commissioner Han Dong-soo Resigns Amid Controversy

Criticism has been raised regarding former Ethics Commissioner Han Dong-soo's decision to dismiss Jung Dal-seong's appeal, calling it inappropriate. It was pointed out that an election worker assisting a voter into a polling booth to support a specific candidate constitutes a violation of election law, and Mr. Jung Dal-seong's actions are equally inappropriate. The panelists strongly criticized, saying, "How could such an absurd decision be made conscientiously?"

He stated, "I support and congratulate those who have gathered to dismantle the 'prosecutorial dictatorship.' I pay tribute to their courage and practical capacity," which fueled suspicions of him being pro-Cho Kuk. These past actions were criticized for overtly revealing a political inclination towards a specific party, despite his position as head of the Ethics Tribunal requiring impartiality.

This was seen as providing an excuse for the prosecution to seize power. Panelists expressed a critical view, stating, "While such individuals receive absolution, there is one person who still hasn't had a proper trial concluded."

It has been pointed out that former Deputy Director Kim Yong of the Democratic Research Institute's trial has been prolonged, essentially transforming into a political trial. Although various figures are urging for a swift verdict, the court's delay in sentencing has raised suspicions that Kim Yong's case is being used as a political bargaining chip. Panelists commented on the current situation, saying, "This has virtually become a political trial."

Panelists emphasized the issue of evidence reliability, stating, "Already, a considerable part of the evidence used in the 1st and 2nd trials to discipline former Deputy Director Kim Yong has been contaminated."

The concern is that if Kim Yong is acquitted, the influence of investigations related to Representative Lee Jae-myung, such as the Ssangbangul case, could weaken. Therefore, the court is not easily concluding the case. Panelists stated, "If former Deputy Director Kim Yong is acquitted, then effectively the Ssangbangul case, which was used to corner President Lee Jae-myung, will also free him, so they are not letting it go easily." They mentioned the possibility of the court delaying sentencing until after its term or using a full panel to issue a guilty verdict.

Representative Jung Cheong-rae stated that Kim Yong was excluded from nominations because "there is no precedent of nominating a defendant awaiting a Supreme Court verdict." This is seen as a politically motivated exclusion from nominations, and the party's reaction to the results of the Supreme Council election is also being viewed critically.