Presidential Office Seeks Explanation from In Yo-han Over Coup Remarks Before Red Cross Appointment

South Korea's presidential office has expressed reservations regarding In Yo-han's recent election as the new president of the Korean Red Cross, citing his past controversial remarks that appeared to support a military coup. The office is awaiting a clear explanation from In before deciding whether to approve his appointment.

“

He must clearly explain his actions during the period of the military coup and seek understanding from the public.

According to a presidential office official on June 24, In must "clearly explain his actions during the period of the military coup" and "seek understanding from the public." The official stressed that while In's appointment aligns with the administration's focus on integrated personnel, he needs to address public concerns about his past statements, particularly his comments in a media interview where he stated he "understands" former President Yoon Suk-yeol's potential declaration of martial law "in his heart."

In Yo-han, who previously served as the interim innovation leader for the ruling People Power Party, was elected as the 32nd president of the Korean Red Cross on June 22. His appointment requires the approval of President Yoon Suk-yeol, who serves as the honorary president of the organization. In responded to the controversy on June 23, stating he "practiced his convictions through the single action of resigning from his parliamentary seat" in response to the "violation of constitutional order and national misfortune caused by illegal martial law."

“

I practiced my convictions through the single action of resigning from my parliamentary seat in response to the violation of constitutional order and national misfortune caused by illegal martial law.

However, opposition parties and some lawmakers within the ruling party have voiced strong opposition to In's nomination. The Jo Guk Innovation Party urged President Yoon to reject the appointment, highlighting In's past support for martial law and opposition to impeachment. Similarly, Rep. Han Ji-ah of the People Power Party questioned whether appointing someone who "understands martial law in his heart" aligns with the government's stated goals of "clearing up past wrongs" and promoting "pragmatism."

“

He understands former President Yoon Suk-yeol's potential declaration of martial law 'in his heart.'