South Korea opposition: Moon aide appointment 'death knell' for democracy

Sept. 9 (UPI) -- South Korea's conservatives are expressing strong opposition to a decision in Seoul to appoint Cho Kuk as justice minister on Monday, despite protests and allegations of misconduct that extend to Cho's wife and daughter.

Hwang Kyo-ahn, head of the main opposition Liberty Korea Party, visited the National Cemetery in Seoul -- the same day President Moon Jae-in publicly confirmed Cho's appointment, Yonhap reported.

Hwang said the appointment marks the end of democracy.

"President Moon's appointment of Cho Kuk as justice minister sounds the death knell for democracy in this land," Hwang said. "We will do all we can, with the people, to block out the recklessness of the Moon Jae-in administration, for the freedom of the Republic of Korea."

Hwang attended a memorial at the cemetery, where veterans of the 1950-53 Korean War are interred. Other LKP politicians, including floor leader Na Kyung-won, were in attendance.

Hwang said the memorial was held to ask the deceased for "forgiveness" for not defending the country. The South Korean politician also said the party plans to hold rallies in central Seoul during rush hour.

In his speech at the cemetery, Hwang also made a clear distinction between the conservatives and the ruling progressives, local newspaper Hankyoreh reported Monday.

Hwang said Moon's administration was "shaking the foundations of a free Republic of Korea," a foundation the "freedom-building right wing" of South Korea had "worked tirelessly to build."

"We pledge to fight until our death, for the freedom of the Republic of Korea," Hwang said.

Moon has ignored calls from conservatives and protesters asking him to cancel Cho's nomination.

On Monday, he instead asked for "public understanding and support."

Cho's wife has been implicated for misconduct, including possibly forging a college award for their daughter with school administrators.

Cho has said he would reform South Korea's prosecution.