Justice Minister Han Sung-ho submits resignation; President asks him to stay on

Justice Minister Han Sung-ho has officially submitted his resignation, signaling his intent to step down from the position he has held.

Minister Han submitted his resignation letter to the Presidential Office on Tuesday, citing health concerns and the successful completion of significant legislative reforms, including amendments to the criminal procedure law. This move comes after he had previously indicated a desire to leave the post.

However, it appears unlikely that his resignation will be accepted immediately. Kang Yoo-jung, Senior Presidential Secretary for Public Relations, stated that President Lee Jae-myung has requested Minister Han to continue fulfilling his duties until successor appointments are finalized. "Minister Han Sung-ho has faithfully carried out his responsibilities according to the people's will. He has requested to resign for health reasons," Kang said. "We have asked him to continue his role until follow-up personnel measures are in place."

The Presidential Office is reportedly leaning towards retaining Minister Han until the new agencies, the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency and the Prosecution Service, are established on October 2nd. President Lee had previously urged Minister Han to "hang in there" during a closed-door cabinet meeting, suggesting a desire for his continued service. The timing of his eventual departure may also be influenced by the upcoming National Assembly audit season, which typically runs from early September to early October, making a mid-audit change of leadership potentially challenging.

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Minister Han Sung-ho has faithfully carried out his responsibilities according to the people's will. He has requested to resign for health reasons. We have asked him to continue his role until follow-up personnel measures are in place.