Jo Kuk 8·15 Special Pardon Controversy: Netizen Opinions and Legal Insights 2025!

Jo Kuk 8·15 Special Pardon Controversy: Netizen Opinions and Legal Insights 2025!

안녕하세요. 노마드케빈입니다.Hello, I’m Nomad Kevin, your guide to political and social issues! As of August 8, 2025, at 10:35 AM KST, the possibility of former Jo Kuk Innovation Party leader Jo Kuk being included in President Lee Jae-myung’s 8·15 special pardon (815 Special Pardon) has sparked intense debate. Let’s dive into netizen opinions, the legal basis for presidential pardons, their timing, frequency, and the need for this extraordinary measure.

Why Is Presidential Special Pardon Necessary? An Extraordinary Measure

Presidential special pardon, rooted in Article 79 of the Constitution and the 「Pardon Act」, is an extraordinary power that transcends judicial limits to benefit the nation and society. Its necessity stems from:

• Complementing Legal Uniformity: Laws apply uniform standards for fairness, but individual cases may lack human or social context. Special pardons adjust overly harsh rulings or outdated penalties, such as those from political conflicts misaligned with current times.
• National Unity and Reconciliation: This act symbolizes healing a divided society. Historical examples, like the 2022 Park Geun-hye pardon, aimed to ease political tensions and foster unity, reflecting the president’s role as a unifying leader.
• Political Balance and Rehabilitation: Pardoning politicians or business leaders can restore political equilibrium and enable public service or economic revival, as seen with the 2022 Lee Jae-yong pardon to boost corporate activity.
• Human Rights and Conscience Relief: For political prisoners or conscientious objectors (e.g., military service refusers) with limited judicial recourse, pardons offer a unique path to restore rights and reassess punishment validity.

However, this power risks abuse and fairness concerns if used for political gain or favoritism, potentially eroding public trust and legal integrity. Thus, social consensus and transparency are vital.

Netizen Reactions to Jo Kuk’s 8·15 Pardon

Online communities and social media show polarized views on Jo Kuk’s potential pardon. Some netizens support it, calling it a “step to end political persecution and unite the nation” or a “chance to restore legal justice.” Conversely, many oppose, arguing that pardoning someone convicted of college admission fraud undermines fairness, labeling it a “political deal” or “evasion of accountability.” Neutral voices suggest “waiting for public opinion” or leaving it to President Lee’s discretion. These sentiments, observed as of August 7, 2025, remain inconclusive without an official announcement.

What Is Presidential Special Pardon? Legal Basis

Presidential special pardon is a judicial grace granted by the president as head of state, per Article 79 of the Constitution and the 「Pardon Act」. It exempts specific individuals from serving sentences or nullifies convictions under special circumstances, requiring no National Assembly approval—unlike general pardons. The Ministry of Justice’s Pardon Review Committee screens candidates, with final decisions made through the Cabinet meeting and presidential endorsement.

Timing and Frequency

There’s no fixed schedule or limit for special pardons, leaving it to presidential discretion. Historically, Liberation Day (8·15) and year-end are key times, with 416,847 pardoned in 2024 and 2,176 in 2023. The Yoon Suk-yeol administration held 5 pardons post-inauguration, while the Moon Jae-in government conducted 5 over five years. In 2025, President Lee, two months into office, may initiate his first pardon, potentially on a large scale for the 80th Liberation anniversary, though political debates could alter plans.

2025 8·15 Pardon Outlook

Jo Kuk’s pardon hinges on President Lee’s political strategy and public sentiment. The Ministry of Justice’s Pardon Review Committee included him in screenings on August 7, with a final decision due by August 12 via the Cabinet meeting. A pardon could boost political unity and supporter cohesion but risks backlash due to the sensitive nature of his fraud conviction.

Conclusion and Your Thoughts

The Jo Kuk 8·15 pardon debate remains a hot topic. Exploring netizen views and legal frameworks reveals diverse perspectives. What are your thoughts on this issue? Share your constructive opinions in the comments below!