Seoul: The main opposition People Power Party (PPP) on Monday voiced strong criticism against President Lee Jae Myung's recent Cabinet reshuffle, accusing him of prioritizing political interests over the well-being of the populace. The reshuffle, announced on Sunday, involved the appointment of six ministers, including Rep. Kim Seung-won of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) as the new justice minister and Rep. Yong Hye-in, floor leader of the minor Basic Income Party, as the new gender equality minister.

According to Yonhap News Agency, PPP floor leader Jeong Jeom-sig expressed his disapproval during a party meeting at the National Assembly, stating, "This Cabinet reshuffle is President Lee's declaration that he is completely rejecting public calls for an overhaul of state affairs." Jeong particularly criticized the nomination of Kim as justice minister, suggesting that it was a strategic move to eliminate criminal charges against the president. He further accused President Lee of prioritizing his approval ratings over addressing economic challenges and improving citizens' lives.

PPP Rep. Shin Dong-wook echoed Jeong's concerns, emphasizing the critical role of the justice minister as a guardian of the rule of law in South Korea. "Nominating someone like (Kim) shows that the president believes the minister only needs to protect him, and this is a direct challenge to the people," Shin stated, underscoring the perceived threat to public trust in governance.

The opposition party also condemned the appointment of Rep. Yong as the gender equality minister, arguing that her nomination might exacerbate social divisions rather than fostering national harmony. They criticized Yong for allegedly inciting gender conflict, particularly highlighting her past comments on military service and other gender-related subjects.

In defense of the reshuffle, the Democratic Party (DP) maintained that President Lee's nominations were justified and that the candidates were well-qualified for their roles. DP leader Kim Min-seok asserted during the party's supreme council meeting, "The latest reshuffle is the beginning of another important shift in the direction of state affairs." He emphasized that the nominees would have the opportunity to clarify and refine their positions during the confirmation hearings, urging against premature judgments.