Defeated aide Ha Jeong-woo eyed for AI committee role; opposition decries 'revolving door' appointments

A potential appointment for Ha Jeong-woo, a former senior presidential secretary for AI future planning who recently lost a parliamentary by-election, has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition party. Reports suggest Ha is being considered for the position of standing vice chairman of the Presidential Committee on National AI Strategy.

The main opposition party slammed the move, labeling it as "revolving door" personnel changes characteristic of the current administration. They argued that appointing Ha, who was defeated in the Busan Buk-gap constituency by-election, demonstrates a blatant disregard for public opinion and the election results.

Ha Jeong-woo had resigned from his previous role in April to contest the by-election. His potential return to a significant government advisory role so soon after his electoral defeat has fueled accusations of cronyism and a lack of accountability within the presidential office.