Lee Byung-tae resigns over 'Gwangju Uprising sacred site' remarks

Lee Byung-tae, vice chairman of the Presidential Committee on Regulatory Reform, has resigned after sparking controversy with his remarks about the May 18 Gwangju Uprising. The resignation came just over two hours after the presidential office stated the matter was "very serious" and that Lee was considering his position. Lee had earlier dismissed calls for his resignation, questioning the basis for such demands given his two-year term.

President Lee Jae-myung's administration has appointed several individuals with conservative backgrounds to key government positions as part of its core policy of integration and pragmatism. Lee Byung-tae, a former chief policy director for Hong Joon-pyo's presidential campaign, was one such appointee. However, his past statements, including calling the Sewol ferry commemoration "a symbol of this society's crudeness," deeming pro-Japanese sentiment natural, and labeling the Moon Jae-in administration a "parasitic regime," had already drawn significant opposition from the ruling party and progressive circles upon his appointment in March.

The presidential office had pushed for his appointment, emphasizing his expertise for pragmatic policy execution and his symbolic role in national unity. This incident, however, has led to an unavoidable assessment that his appointment, intended for "national unity," was a "failure." The problem extends beyond Lee, as other appointees have also faced controversies. These include Kang Joon-wook, former deputy secretary for National Integration, who resigned over past remarks labeling the Justice Party and Democratic Party as "communists" and defending a 1979 emergency decree; Lee Hye-hoon, a former nominee for Minister of Planning and Budget, who was removed due to allegations of opposing former President Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment, irregular apartment subscriptions, and mistreatment of staff; and In Yo-han, president of the Korean Red Cross, who faced criticism for defending martial law and former President Yoon.

The Lee Jae-myung government should not be faulted for embracing individuals with conservative leanings or those who belonged to rival parties to foster social integration and expand its support base. However, when such individuals have acted or spoken in ways that conflict with the government's policies or fundamental democratic values, questions arise among the public and supporters about whether they should be included under the umbrella of "inclusion." The presidential office needs to reflect on whether there has been any arbitrariness or arrogance in the selection process. While continuing efforts for integration and expansion, the presidential office should clearly establish the principles and standards to be upheld in that process.