Key Facts
• South Korean government granted a special pardon to Cho Kuk on August 11, 2025.
• Cho Kuk, former Justice Minister, was convicted in December 2024 for abuse of power.
• He was sentenced to two years in prison for his role in a college admissions scandal.
• The pardon restores Cho’s eligibility for political activities, including running for office.
• Media speculates Cho may lead the opposition party or run for Seoul or Busan mayor.
• Cho previously served as Justice Minister under the Moon Jae-in administration.
• The scandal involved falsified documents to secure university admission for his child.
Summary
The South Korean government has granted a special pardon to Cho Kuk, a former Justice Minister, who was serving a two-year prison sentence for abuse of power related to a college admissions scandal involving his child. The decision, made during an extraordinary cabinet meeting on August 11, 2025, restores Cho’s political rights, allowing him to re-enter politics. Media reports suggest he may resume leadership of the opposition party or run for mayoral positions in Seoul or Busan in the upcoming local elections. Cho, a prominent figure in the Moon Jae-in administration, had his political career derailed following his conviction in December 2024. The case, which centered on falsified documents to secure university admission, has drawn significant public and media attention.
