Cho Kuk Donates 1 Million Won to Roh Moo-hyun Foundation
Cho Kuk, former leader of the Jo Guk Innovation Party, has reportedly donated 1 million won to the Roh Moo-hyun Foundation. The announcement was made on June 20th.
Cho Kuk confirmed the donation through his Facebook page, stating, “I have made a provisional donation of 1 million won to the Roh Moo-hyun Foundation.” He further elaborated on the foundation’s history, noting its establishment in 2009 by figures involved in the government of the late President Roh Moo-hyun, including Moon Jae-in, Han Myung-sook, and Yoo Si-min. Over the years, prominent politicians such as Han Myung-sook, Moon Jae-in, Lee Byung-wan, Lee Hae-chan, Yoo Si-min, Chung Sye-kyun, and Choo Mi-ae have served as its directors.
Donation Follows Yoo Si-min’s Departure from Foundation
This contribution comes in the wake of author Yoo Si-min’s resignation from his position as a senior board member of the Roh Moo-hyun Foundation on June 15th. Yoo Si-min announced his intention to leave the foundation, stating, “I plan to leave the Roh Moo-hyun Foundation for now. Please take good care of the foundation until we meet again.” His departure followed criticism from Kwak Sang-eon, a lawmaker and grandson of Roh Moo-hyun, who questioned the foundation’s current advocacy efforts.
Political Analysis Points to Support for Yoo Si-min
Political observers suggest that Cho Kuk’s donation is a gesture of support for Yoo Si-min. During the recent general election for the Gyeonggi Pyeongtaek constituency, Yoo Si-min had expressed a preference for Cho Kuk over Democratic Party candidate Kim Yong-nam, indicating support for Cho Kuk’s party rather than the mainstream Democratic Party. However, Cho Kuk ultimately lost the election, coming in third place behind Yoo Ui-dong of the People Power Party and Kim Yong-nam of the Democratic Party.
Following the election results on June 4th, Cho Kuk announced his resignation from his party leadership position, accepting responsibility for the outcome.
