1. Overview
Han Myeong-sook (한명숙Han Myeong-sookKorean), born on March 24, 1944, is a prominent South Korean politician and women's rights activist who holds the distinction of being the nation's first female Prime Minister, serving from April 2006 to March 2007. A graduate of Ewha Womans University with a degree in French literature, her early career was marked by her fervent involvement in the democratization and women's rights movements. This activism led to her imprisonment and alleged torture under authoritarian regimes, a period she has since been exonerated for.
Her political journey began with her election to the National Assembly in 2000, followed by significant ministerial roles as the inaugural Minister for Gender Equality and later as Minister for Environment. Her premiership was a historic milestone, though it was relatively brief, concluding with her resignation to pursue a presidential bid, which proved unsuccessful. Han continued her political career as a legislator and later as the leader of the main opposition Democratic United Party in 2012. Throughout her career, Han has consistently advocated for social justice, gender equality, and democratic development. However, her public life has also been shadowed by a high-profile legal challenge involving allegations of illegal political funding, leading to her conviction and imprisonment in 2015, a judgment she vehemently maintained was politically motivated. She was granted a special amnesty in 2021, which restored her constitutional rights.
2. Early Life and Education
Han Myeong-sook was born on March 24, 1944, in Pyongyang, then part of Korea under Japanese rule. During the Korean War, her family relocated to the South. She spent her childhood in Seoul, where she attended Seoul Yeongdeungpo Elementary School (서울영등포초등학교Seoul Yeongdeungpo ChodeunghakgyoKorean). During her elementary years, she was an active student and an avid runner, frequently chosen as a relay team member for her speed and athleticism.
After graduating from Seoul Yeongdeungpo Elementary School in 1957, Han continued her secondary education at Jeongsin Girls' Middle School (정신여자중학교Jeongsin Yeoja JunghakgyoKorean), from which she graduated in 1960. She then enrolled in Jeongsin Girls' High School (정신여자고등학교Jeongsin Yeoja GodeunghakgyoKorean), completing her studies in 1963. Her higher education began at Ewha Womans University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in French Literature in 1967. Following her undergraduate studies, she pursued advanced degrees, first attending Hanshin University's Missionary Theology Graduate School (한신대학교 선교신학대학원Hanshin Daehakgyo Seon-gyo Sinhak DaehagwonKorean), where she completed a master's degree in Theology in February 1977. She furthered her academic pursuits at Ewha Womans University's Graduate School (이화여자대학교 대학원Ihwa Yeoja Daehakgyo DaehagwonKorean), obtaining a master's degree in Women's Studies in February 1985. In 1999, she briefly undertook studies as a visiting researcher at New York's Union Theological Seminary in the United States.
3. Activism and Pre-Political Career
Han Myeong-sook's life before her political career was largely defined by her deep commitment to social activism, particularly in the areas of women's rights and the democratization movement against authoritarian rule in South Korea. In 1967, she married Park Seong-jun, who would later become a professor of NGO Peace Studies at Sungkonghoe University. Just six months after their marriage, Park Seong-jun was arrested and sentenced to 15 years in prison in connection with the Unified Revolutionary Party Incident (통일혁명당 사건Tongil Hyeokmyeongdang SageonKorean) for allegedly attempting to subvert the South Korean government. Han Myeong-sook supported her husband throughout his 13 years of imprisonment, until his release in 1981.
Her own activism intensified during this period. In 1970, while working as a dormitory supervisor at Ewha Womans University, she resigned due to her support for student protests, which put her at odds with the authorities. She then joined the Christian Academy (크리스천 아카데미Keuriseuchyeon AkademiKorean), a pivotal organization in the South Korean democratization movement, becoming a women's division secretary in 1974. Her work there focused on addressing human rights issues for marginalized women. In 1979, she, along with other Christian Academy members, was arrested under the Anti-Communist Law on charges of reading "subversive" literature and organizing a "pro-communist" group, accusations that were later recognized as politically motivated. During her imprisonment, she endured torture by the Korean Central Intelligence Agency (KCIA) and was held for two years and six months in Gwangju Prison, ultimately receiving a sentence of two years and six months, with a suspended qualification of the same duration. She was released in 1981 through a special amnesty on Gwangbokjeol, South Korea's Liberation Day. That same year, with the assistance of Bishop Ji Hak-soon, she helped secure her husband's release through a special Christmas amnesty.
After her release, Han continued her academic and activist work. She lectured on women's studies at Hanshin University starting in 1977, and at Ewha Womans University from 1986 to 1987. She also taught at Sungshim Women's University (now part of Catholic University of Korea) from 1988 until she pursued studies abroad. A significant moment in her activism came in 1987, when she participated in the June Democracy Movement as a member of the Korea Women's Organizations United (한국여성단체연합Hanguk Yeoseong Danchye YeonhapKorean), notably giving red carnations to riot police alongside mothers of political detainees, a gesture symbolizing peaceful resistance.
From 1989 to 1994, she served as the president of the Korea Women's Minwoohoe (한국여성민우회Hanguk Yeoseong MinuhoeKorean). During this period, she also chaired the Family Law Reform Special Committee of the Korea Women's Organizations United (1989) and held roles as vice-president, co-representative, and advisory member of the same organization from 1990 onwards. Her consistent advocacy for women's political and social participation, along with her efforts to reform family law, laid crucial groundwork for the women's movement. She also played a leading role in drafting legislation related to the prevention of sexual violence and maternity protection. In 1994, she co-founded and served as a co-representative for the Citizens' Coalition for Economic Justice (CCEJ) (참여연대ChamyeoyeondaeKorean), a prominent civic movement organization.
4. Entry into Public Service
Han Myeong-sook's transition into formal politics began in 1999, following a distinguished career as a social activist. While still in the United States as a visiting researcher, she accepted an offer to serve as a co-representative for the Citizens' Coalition for Economic Justice (CCEJ). In September 1999, at the recommendation of Jae-jung Lee, then president of Sungkonghoe University, and former President Kim Dae-jung, Han joined the preparatory committee for the founding of the Millennium Democratic Party (MDP) (새천년민주당Saecheonnyeon MinjudangKorean), a party formed through the reorganization of the National Congress for New Politics. She became the chairwoman of the women's division during this process, stating that she believed political participation was the most effective means to achieve women's political and social equality. Due to concerns about maintaining the neutrality of the CCEJ, she resigned from her co-representative position there.
In the 2000 16th National Assembly election, Han Myeong-sook was elected as a proportional representative (number 5 on the list) for the Millennium Democratic Party. During her tenure on the Environmental Labor Committee, she earned a reputation for diligence by raising critical issues concerning environmental damage caused by US military oil pipelines, the plight of irregular workers, damage to national parks by industrial complexes, and the prevalence of illegal employment of minors. She also questioned the economic feasibility of the Saemangeum reclamation project and highlighted excessive medical billing by industrial accident hospitals. Her efforts during the 2000 National Assembly audit led to her being recognized as a "Best Legislator" by several media outlets.
On January 29, 2001, with the revision of the Government Organization Act, Han Myeong-sook was appointed as the inaugural Minister for Gender Equality, a long-standing aspiration for women's rights advocates. Although another candidate was initially favored, Kim Joong-kwon, the MDP leader, and Han Gwang-ok, the presidential chief of staff, advocated for Han Myeong-sook's appointment. Her selection was widely welcomed by most women's organizations, although some expressed regret that the previously favored candidate was overlooked.
As Minister for Gender Equality, Han played a decisive role in the passage of the Maternity Protection Act, a bill she had initially proposed as a legislator. She also worked to expand awareness of sexual harassment through the Gender Discrimination Improvement Committee and spearheaded efforts to abolish the deeply entrenched Hojuje system (호주제HojujeKorean), which had historically privileged male lineage. She was generally praised for her principled approach and clear policy objectives during her term.
On February 28, 2003, with the inauguration of the Roh Moo-hyun administration, Han Myeong-sook was appointed Minister for Environment in the new cabinet. This appointment came amidst initial concerns about President Roh's perceived conservative stance on environmental policy during his presidential campaign. During her tenure, she faced challenges and occasional friction with other government ministries, notably being excluded from discussions on nuclear waste facilities and clashing over the controversial Saemangeum project and a special law for Dokdo development. She once publicly lamented that no one supported environmental policies in cabinet meetings. Despite these hurdles, the Ministry of Environment under her leadership actively pursued legislation such as the Seoul Metropolitan Air Quality Improvement Act, the Baekdudaegan Protection Act, and the Wild Animals and Plants Protection Act. The ministry was recognized as a top-performing government agency, and Han herself was ranked first in a leadership evaluation of ministers by a major newspaper, though the methodology of this evaluation later drew criticism. During a television appearance, she faced criticism for confusing water supply and sewage systems, leading to some public perception that she lacked deep expertise in environmental matters.
5. Prime Ministership
Han Myeong-sook's tenure as Prime Minister of South Korea marked a significant milestone in the nation's political history, as she became the first woman to hold the position.
Following the resignation of Prime Minister Lee Hae-chan, President Roh Moo-hyun nominated Han Myeong-sook on March 24, 2006, to become his third Prime Minister. She was the second woman ever to be nominated for the premiership, after Chang Sang who served as acting Prime Minister. Her nomination was met with some political contention, as the opposition Grand National Party (GNP) argued that the new Prime Minister should divest her party membership to ensure fairness in the upcoming local elections and even threatened to boycott her confirmation hearing. During the National Assembly's confirmation hearings, held on April 17 and 18, 2006, questions were raised regarding her party affiliation, governmental capacity, and perceived ideological leanings. However, on April 19, the National Assembly voted to approve her appointment, and she was officially sworn in on April 20, 2006.
During her premiership, Han Myeong-sook was noted for her clear and assertive stance on various national issues, including the debate surrounding the tenure of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education and Human Resources, Kim Byeong-jun, and the cancellation of internet lottery issuance. Her leadership was characterized by a pragmatic approach to governance. However, she also faced criticism for her perceived inaction regarding the suppression of protestors during her term. On October 9, 2006, following North Korea's nuclear test, Prime Minister Han acknowledged that the engagement policy had "failed to prevent the nuclear test" and stated that "revision is unavoidable," a stance that drew criticism from some figures like then-Red Cross President Han Wan-sang, who argued it created public instability. In January 2007, she publicly supported President Roh's proposal for a constitutional amendment to allow a four-year presidential term with re-election, forming a special promotion group (개헌지원추진단Gaeheon Jiwon ChujindanKorean) to support the initiative. Her more aggressive posture in defending this proposal against parliamentary criticism was interpreted by the GNP as a strategic political move in anticipation of a presidential candidacy.
5.1. International Relations
During her premiership, Han Myeong-sook engaged in active diplomacy, seeking to strengthen South Korea's bilateral relations with various countries, particularly in the Middle East and Central Asia.
On September 19 and 20, 2006, she visited Libya to foster bilateral ties. Shortly after, on September 24, she traveled to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where she held high-level talks with Prime Minister Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Han emphasized the potential for expanded bilateral cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, information technology, and tourism. She noted that approximately 50 South Korean companies had established their Middle East headquarters in Dubai. While UAE companies had invested 8.00 B USD in South Korea between 2002 and 2006, South Korea's total investment in the UAE stood at only 25.00 M USD. In an interview with Gulf News in September 2006, she expressed a desire to further increase South Korean investment in the UAE and advocated for a Free Trade Agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council. Regarding gender equality in the UAE, she commended the efforts of figures like Shaikha Fatima and the appointments of the first female ministers, Lubna Khalid Al Qasimi and Mariam Al Roumi, as positive indicators of social adaptation. She also articulated a stance against imposing "U.S. or Western-style democracy on the Arab world," stating that "the values of democracy are not to be imposed." Han also conveyed South Korea's friendship towards Lebanon and Israel and expressed support for UN Security Council Resolution 1701, UNIFIL, Kofi Annan's peace efforts, and then-Foreign Minister Ban Ki-moon's candidacy for United Nations Secretary-General.
Her diplomatic engagements extended to Central Asia, where she met with Daniyal Akhmetov, the Prime Minister of Kazakhstan, in Astana on September 23, 2006. The two leaders signed several bilateral agreements aimed at enhancing economic cooperation. The South Korean government committed to investing an additional 2.00 B USD in joint projects across the energy, uranium extraction, construction, transportation, and banking sectors. Akhmetov also offered South Korea the opportunity to participate in developing a new type of nuclear reactor. At the time, South Korean investors held stakes in over 300 Kazakhstan-based companies. Han extended an invitation from President Roh to President Nursultan Nazarbayev to visit South Korea in 2007, which Nazarbayev accepted, expressing hope that the visit would boost cooperation in the petrochemical industry, information technology, and education.
Continuing her Central Asian tour, Han met with Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan, in Tashkent on September 25, 2006. They signed several agreements, notably a deal for Uzbekistan to supply 300 tons of Uzbek uranium ore to South Korea annually from 2010 to 2014, bypassing previous U.S. middlemen. Han also met with Uzbek President Islam Karimov and Parliament Speaker Erkin Xalilov. The discussions led to increased cooperation in the energy, agriculture, construction, architecture, and information technology sectors. Trade between South Korea and Uzbekistan had seen a significant increase of nearly 40% between 2005 and 2006, reaching 565.00 M USD.
5.2. Resignation
Han Myeong-sook resigned from her position as Prime Minister on March 7, 2007. Her resignation was widely speculated to be a precursor to a potential bid for the presidency in the December 2007 elections. Upon her resignation, she penned a letter expressing her intent to continue working as a politician, focusing on the nation's development and public welfare. She returned to the Uri Party following her departure from the Prime Minister's office.
6. Political Career
After her tenure as Prime Minister, Han Myeong-sook continued to be an influential figure in South Korean politics, serving as a member of the National Assembly, assuming leadership roles within political parties, and participating in key electoral campaigns.
6.1. Legislative Service
Han Myeong-sook served multiple terms as a legislator. Her initial entry into the National Assembly was in 2000, as a proportional representative for the Millennium Democratic Party (MDP) in the 16th National Assembly. During this term, she was active on the Environmental Labor Committee, where she focused on issues such as environmental protection, labor rights, and the welfare of non-regular workers. In 2001, upon her appointment as the first Minister for Gender Equality, she resigned from her legislative seat, which was then succeeded by Park Yang-soo.
In 2004, she successfully ran for a district seat in Ilsan of Gyeonggi Province under the Uri Party banner for the 17th National Assembly. Her victory in the Ilsan-gap constituency, against a prominent opposition figure, was seen as a significant political triumph reflecting public sentiment following the impeachment proceedings against President Roh Moo-hyun. During her 17th term, Han was a member of the Unification, Foreign Affairs, and Trade Committee. She maintained a firm stance on historical issues, even abstaining from a vote on the Historical Truth and Reconciliation Act in 2005 due to concerns that compromises had weakened the bill. She also publicly criticized then-Grand National Party leader Park Geun-hye as the "daughter of a dictator." While she adhered to the party line by voting in favor of the Rice Trade Negotiation ratification and the deployment of the Zaytun Division to Iraq in 2004, her legislative focus remained consistent with her progressive values. Within the Uri Party, she chaired the Special Committee for the Construction of a New Administrative Capital and also led the Household and Juvenile System Reform Committee within the Family Court.
After a period out of the National Assembly following her defeat in the 2008 general election, Han Myeong-sook was once again elected as a proportional representative (number 15 on the list) for the Democratic United Party in the 19th National Assembly in 2012, marking her third term as a legislator. However, her term was cut short in 2015 when she was removed from office following a Supreme Court conviction related to political funding allegations.
6.2. Electoral Campaigns
Han Myeong-sook has participated in several high-profile electoral campaigns beyond her successful legislative bids.
After resigning from her prime ministerial post in March 2007, she declared her candidacy for the 2007 presidential election on June 18, aiming to represent the United New Democratic Party (UNDP). However, on September 14, 2007, she withdrew from the UNDP primary to support former Prime Minister Lee Hae-chan in an effort to unify the pro-government progressive bloc, though Lee ultimately lost the nomination to Chung Dong-young. In the 2008 general election, she sought re-election for her Ilsan constituency under the banner of the Integrated Democratic Party (a merger of the UNDP and the Democratic Party). Despite early polling indicating a lead, she was narrowly defeated by Baek Seong-woon of the Grand National Party. Her campaign faced a setback just days before the election when one of her campaign workers was indicted for alleged illegal campaign activities.
In 2010, Han Myeong-sook launched a significant campaign for the position of Mayor of Seoul. Following her acquittal in a bribery case, she formally announced her mayoral bid on April 21, 2010. She critically assessed the eight years of mayoral administration under Lee Myung-bak and the incumbent, Oh Se-hoon, proposing a platform that included increased budgets for employment, welfare, and education, alongside significant cuts to unnecessary civil engineering and construction projects. Her policy pledges also encompassed the implementation of free compulsory school lunches, expansion of free childcare, and broader after-school programs. On May 6, she secured the Democratic Party's nomination for Seoul Mayor by winning the internal party primary. Her campaign gained further momentum on May 14 when she became the unified opposition candidate, garnering support from a coalition of four opposition parties: the Democratic Party, Democratic Labor Party, People's Participation Party, and Creative Korea Party. Initially, polls showed her trailing the incumbent Oh Se-hoon by a significant margin. However, driven by strong turnout among voters in their 20s to 40s who were dissatisfied with the Lee Myung-bak administration, Han mounted a strong challenge, ultimately losing to Oh Se-hoon by a margin of less than one percentage point. In a post-election statement, she declared, "I lost, but the people won," asserting that the public had delivered a stern judgment against the Lee Myung-bak government's policies.
She was again considered a strong candidate for the 2011 Seoul mayoral by-election, which was triggered by Oh Se-hoon's resignation over a referendum on free school lunches. However, on September 13, 2011, she chose not to run and instead endorsed Park Won-soon, a prominent lawyer and co-founder of the Citizens' Coalition for Economic Justice, who went on to win the election.
6.3. Party Leadership
Han Myeong-sook played a pivotal role in the leadership of progressive political parties in South Korea, particularly during a period of consolidation among center-left forces.
Following her election to the 17th National Assembly, she was initially considered for the position of party chair of the Uri Party. Instead, she was appointed to chair the National Agenda Implementation Special Committee, tasked with supporting the Roh Moo-hyun administration's policies. After the Uri Party's leadership, including then-party chairman Lee Bu-young, resigned on January 2, 2005, due to the failure to pass four key legislative bills, Han also stepped down from her role as a Standing Central Committee member. She initially declined to run for party chair in the subsequent leadership election but later re-entered the race after receiving support from a faction aligned with Chung Dong-young. Despite a female legislator rule ensuring a spot on the Standing Central Committee, she received only 10.7% of the vote in the party convention on April 3, 2005, which led to concerns about the support for female candidates even among women delegates. Following significant losses in the April 30, 2005, by-elections, Han was appointed chair of the Party Innovation Committee. However, after further by-election defeats on October 26, 2005, she and other party leaders resigned on October 28, just six months after their election.
On January 15, 2012, Han Myeong-sook was elected as the inaugural leader of the Democratic United Party (DUP), winning 24.5% of the vote in the party's first congress. The DUP was formed through a merger of the Democratic Party, the minor Citizens Unity Party, and the Korea Confederation of Trade Unions, aiming to consolidate the main opposition forces in the country. Her election initially boosted the party's approval ratings, even surpassing the ruling party, and instilled confidence in securing the largest number of seats in the upcoming April legislative elections. However, her leadership faced challenges and criticism. She was criticized for shifting her stance on the KOR-US Free Trade Agreement (FTA), advocating for renegotiation despite having actively promoted it during the Roh Moo-hyun administration. Allegations also surfaced regarding illegal fundraising during the candidate primary elections and a perceived bias towards pro-Roh and "486 generation" figures in the party's nomination process, leading to internal discontent and a decline in public support. Despite being placed 15th on the proportional representation list for the April 11, 2012, general election, the DUP failed to unseat the ruling Saenuri Party (새누리당Saenuri-dangKorean) (formerly the Grand National Party) as the largest party. Taking responsibility for the defeat, Han Myeong-sook stepped down as DUP leader on April 13, 2012. For a brief period of three months, both major Korean parties were led by women, with Han Myeong-sook leading the DUP and Park Geun-hye leading the Grand National Party. After stepping down, Han continued to serve as a standing advisor for the Democratic Party.
7. Social and Civic Engagement
Beyond her formal political roles, Han Myeong-sook has maintained a steadfast commitment to social and civic engagement, continually advocating for marginalized groups and social justice. Her activism predates her political entry, stemming from her involvement in the Christian Academy and the broader democratization movement, where she championed women's rights and challenged authoritarian rule.
Throughout her career, she has consistently been involved with various civic organizations. She served as president of the Korea Women's Minwoohoe from 1989 to 1994, and as a vice-president, co-representative, and advisory member of the Korea Women's Organizations United, where she led initiatives for family law reform and gender equality. Her co-founding of the Citizens' Coalition for Economic Justice (CCEJ) in 1994 further cemented her role in the civic sector, focusing on broader issues of economic justice and transparency.
Even after her high-profile political positions, Han continued her civic work. She has served as an advisory member for "Ajoomma Ga Kiwooneun YeonDae" (아줌마가 키우는 연대Ajoomma Ga Kiwooneun YeonDaeKorean, Moms Raising Alliance) and as a board member for the War and Women's Human Rights Museum, demonstrating her ongoing dedication to historical justice and human rights education. She was also a founding member of the (tentative) Democratization Movement Mutual Aid Association and an executive board member of the UN Human Rights Policy Center.
Following the death of former President Roh Moo-hyun in 2009, Han Myeong-sook took on a significant civic responsibility as a co-chair of his National Funeral Committee, alongside then-Prime Minister Han Seung-soo, and delivered a eulogy at the memorial service. She also served as the inaugural chairperson of the Saram Saraneun Sesang Roh Moo-hyun Foundation from September 2009 to April 2010, furthering the late president's legacy of "a world where people live together." Her sustained involvement in these various capacities underscores her lifelong commitment to social justice and civil society, extending beyond the confines of parliamentary or executive office.
8. Ideological Stances and Policy Focus
Han Myeong-sook's ideological stances and policy focus have consistently centered on social justice, gender equality, and democratic reform, reflecting her background as a progressive activist. Her political thought has evolved within the broader context of South Korea's democratization and the progressive movement.
From her early days as a legislator, she demonstrated a strong commitment to progressive ideals. In the 16th National Assembly, she advocated for labor rights, environmental protection, and reforms for non-regular workers. Her efforts to improve maternity protection laws and her leading role in establishing the Ministry for Gender Equality underscored her unwavering dedication to women's rights and gender equality. She was a vocal proponent of abolishing the Hojuje (호주제HojujeKorean), the traditional family registry system that discriminated against women, and worked to raise awareness about sexual harassment.
As Minister for Environment, she championed legislation aimed at improving air quality, protecting natural heritage like the Baekdudaegan mountain range, and conserving wild flora and fauna, despite facing internal resistance from other government sectors. Her consistent focus was on strengthening environmental regulations and promoting sustainable policies.
Throughout her political career, Han has maintained what is widely considered a leftist stance, evident in her support for the abolition of the National Security Law in 2004, which aligns with progressive calls for greater civil liberties. However, her policy positions have also shown instances of evolution or perceived shifts. Notably, during the Roh Moo-hyun administration, she actively promoted the Korea-United States Free Trade Agreement (KOR-US FTA) and the construction of the Jeju Naval Base. Yet, during the subsequent Lee Myung-bak government, when she was a prominent opposition figure, she voiced opposition to these very policies. This change in stance drew criticism from the ruling Saenuri Party (새누리당Saenuri-dangKorean), who labeled it as "changing positions."
Despite these shifts on specific policies, her core commitment to democratic development and social welfare has remained central. Her campaigns for Seoul mayor emphasized increasing budgets for employment, welfare, and education, alongside reducing spending on large-scale civil engineering projects. She advocated for initiatives like free school lunches and expanded free childcare, reflecting her focus on social safety nets and public services. Even amidst legal challenges, she has continued to frame her actions and beliefs within the context of fighting for justice and addressing the grievances of the people.
9. Personal Life
Han Myeong-sook's personal life is characterized by her long-standing marriage and family. In 1967, at the age of 24, she married Park Seong-jun. Park Seong-jun is an academic who later became a professor of NGO Peace Studies at Sungkonghoe University and currently operates Gildamseowon, a cultural space in Seoul's Tongin-dong.
Their early marriage was significantly impacted by political events. Just six months after their wedding, Park Seong-jun was arrested in connection with the Unified Revolutionary Party Incident in 1968, facing charges of violating the National Security Act, engaging in internal rebellion conspiracy, and violating the Anti-Communist Law. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison in the first trial, a sentence that was upheld by the Supreme Court the following year. Han Myeong-sook herself received a one-year sentence, suspended for one year, along with a one-year suspension of qualifications, related to the same incident. She supported her husband throughout his 13 years of imprisonment, until his release in 1981.
In 1985, at the age of 42, Han Myeong-sook gave birth to their only child, a son named Park Han-gil. She also has a sister, Han Seon-suk. Her family's experiences, particularly her husband's long incarceration and her own legal challenges, have deeply influenced her public life and advocacy for democratic values.
10. Legal Challenges and Conviction
Han Myeong-sook has faced significant legal challenges throughout her post-premiership career, primarily involving allegations of illegal political funding and bribery. These cases have been highly scrutinized, with accusations from her and her supporters that they were politically motivated.
The first major allegation emerged in December 2009, when she was accused of receiving 50.00 K USD from Kwak Young-wook (곽영욱Gwak Yeong-ukKorean), a former CEO of Daehan Express (대한통운DaehantongunKorean), in 2007 during her tenure as Prime Minister, in exchange for a personnel favor regarding a CEO appointment at a subsidiary of Korea Electric Power Corporation. Han consistently denied the allegations, calling the investigation "unjust." She initially refused to comply with summons for questioning, leading to her arrest on December 18, 2009, at the Roh Moo-hyun Foundation office. During her interrogation, she exercised her right to silence. Some observers and her legal team alleged that the prosecution offered a deal to Kwak Young-wook, dropping illegal stock trading charges against him in exchange for his testimony against Han. The defense also pointed out inconsistencies in Kwak's testimony during the trial, including changing his account of how the money was delivered and claiming to have felt threatened by the intensity of the prosecution's questioning. Furthermore, a claim by the prosecution that Kwak had gifted Han a golf club worth approximately 9.98 M KRW in 2002 was met with skepticism by the presiding judge, who questioned the plausibility of a minister receiving such a gift during working hours. Her initial trial ended in an acquittal on April 9, 2010, with the court citing a lack of credibility in Kwak Young-wook's testimony and insufficient evidence from the prosecution. This acquittal was upheld in the second trial on January 13, 2012, and ultimately affirmed by the Supreme Court on March 14, 2013, effectively exonerating her in the "$50,000 bribery" case.
A separate and more impactful legal battle involved allegations that Han Myeong-sook received illegal political funds totaling approximately 900.00 M KRW from Han Man-ho (한만호Han Man-hoKorean), a former CEO of Hanshin Engineering & Construction (한신건영Hansin GeonseolKorean), in three installments between March and August 2007. She was indicted without detention for this charge in July 2010. In her final statement during the first trial, Han asserted that the indictment was a politically motivated attempt to prevent her from running for Seoul mayor or to ensure her defeat. She maintained her innocence, stating that she had never received money from Han Man-ho and questioning the plausibility of the accusations, such as receiving large sums of money in cash at her home during parliamentary sessions without her driver's knowledge. On October 31, 2011, the Seoul Central District Court acquitted her in the first trial, citing a lack of credibility in Han Man-ho's testimony, suggesting it might have been influenced by external factors, such as his desire to recover his company from legal troubles. The court also raised doubts about the objectivity of the prosecution's investigation methods.
However, the prosecution appealed the ruling. On September 16, 2013, the Seoul High Court overturned the first-instance acquittal, convicting Han Myeong-sook and sentencing her to two years in prison and a forfeiture of 880.00 M KRW. The appellate court found Han Man-ho's testimony to be credible, despite his previous retractions. Following this verdict, Han appealed to the Supreme Court, again asserting that the judgment was politically biased.
On August 20, 2015, the Supreme Court's Grand Bench rejected her final appeal, upholding the two-year prison sentence and the 880.00 M KRW forfeiture. This verdict marked a significant moment in South Korean history, as Han Myeong-sook became the first former Prime Minister to be confirmed guilty of financial misconduct and imprisoned. The conviction resulted in her immediate loss of her National Assembly seat and barred her from running for election for ten years after her release. In a statement released through her legal team, she reiterated her innocence, describing herself as a "criminal shackled by political oppression." Then-leader of the New Politics Alliance for Democracy, Moon Jae-in, also expressed "dismay" at the judiciary's decision. Han Myeong-sook was taken into custody at the Seoul Detention Center on August 24, 2015, and later transferred to a correctional facility. She completed her two-year sentence and was released from Uijeongbu Prison in Gyeonggi Province on August 23, 2017, greeted by supporters including former National Assembly Vice Speaker Moon Hee-sang and former Prime Minister Lee Hae-chan.
In 2020, the ruling Democratic Party of Korea, to which Han belonged, demanded a re-investigation into her case, claiming she was a "victim of high-handed investigation and judicial monopoly." On December 24, 2021, the Moon Jae-in administration announced that Han Myeong-sook would be included in the special amnesty and restoration of rights effective December 31, 2021. However, some legal experts pointed out that she still had an outstanding forfeiture of approximately 700.00 M KRW, which, under President Moon's own stated principles, should have disqualified her from amnesty until fully paid.
A related controversy involved allegations that part of the illegal political funds received by Han Man-ho flowed to Han Myeong-sook's younger sister, Han Seon-suk. A 100.00 M KRW check, believed to be part of the 900.00 M KRW was used for her sister's apartment deposit. Han Seon-suk claimed she borrowed the money from Han's aide and was unaware of its source. However, the prosecution questioned the credibility of her testimony, citing inconsistencies, such as why she would keep large sums of cash at home instead of using bank accounts for a small interest loss, and why she immediately consulted Han Myeong-sook instead of the aide when the check's source became controversial. The aide also maintained that the loan to Han Seon-suk was a private transaction unrelated to Han Myeong-sook.
11. Legacy and Impact
Han Myeong-sook's legacy in South Korean politics is multifaceted, deeply rooted in her pioneering role as a female leader and her unwavering commitment to social justice and democratic development. Her career has left a lasting influence on the nation's political landscape and societal discourse.
Her most significant contribution is her symbolic breaking of the glass ceiling as South Korea's first female Prime Minister. This achievement, alongside her earlier role as the inaugural Minister for Gender Equality, established a precedent for women in high-level political office and challenged traditional gender norms in a largely patriarchal society. Her ascent to such prominent positions inspired many and reshaped perceptions of female leadership capabilities in South Korea.
Beyond her symbolic significance, Han's career reflects a consistent dedication to progressive values. Her long history as an activist, her legislative efforts focused on social welfare and gender equality, and her consistent advocacy for marginalized groups have contributed to the strengthening of democratic institutions and the promotion of social justice. Her involvement in key progressive movements, from the democratization struggles against authoritarianism to her leadership in civil society organizations, demonstrates a lifelong commitment to these ideals.
Despite the controversies and legal challenges that marred her later career, her supporters often view her as a victim of political persecution, further solidifying her image as a figure who endured hardship for her progressive beliefs. Her ultimate special amnesty, while controversial itself, underscored the political nature of her conviction for many. Overall, Han Myeong-sook's impact is seen in her embodiment of the struggles and aspirations of South Korea's progressive movement, her groundbreaking achievements for women in politics, and her persistent voice for a more equitable and democratic society.
11.1. Contributions to Women's Rights
Han Myeong-sook's contributions to women's rights and gender equality in South Korea are among the most significant aspects of her legacy. Her background as a lifelong women's activist translated directly into concrete achievements during her time in public service.
As the inaugural Minister for Gender Equality from 2001 to 2003, she played a pivotal role in shaping national policy on gender issues. A key achievement was her instrumental role in the passage of the Maternity Protection Act. This legislation, which she had initially proposed as a National Assembly member, aimed to expand maternity leave entitlements and introduce new forms of leave for pregnant and new mothers, significantly advancing protections for working women. Although the final bill was a compromise from her original proposal due to opposition from business groups, it marked a crucial step forward in establishing legal frameworks for maternal support.
Han also actively worked to dismantle discriminatory practices and raise public awareness of gender issues. Through the Gender Discrimination Improvement Committee, she contributed to broadening the understanding and addressing instances of sexual harassment. Furthermore, she was a leading figure in the movement to abolish the deeply entrenched Hojuje (호주제HojujeKorean), the traditional family registration system that legally privileged male lineage and discriminated against women. Her advocacy for its abolition reflected her commitment to fundamental gender equality in family law. Throughout her career, from her early days as president of the Korea Women's Minwoohoe and a co-representative of the Korea Women's Organizations United, she consistently championed women's political and social participation, advocating for comprehensive family law reform and leading legislative initiatives related to sexual violence prevention and maternity protection. Her work laid essential groundwork for the advancement of women's status in South Korean society.
11.2. Democratic Development and Social Justice
Han Myeong-sook's contributions to democratic development and social justice are deeply interwoven with her life's work, from her early activism to her high-level political roles. She emerged from the crucible of South Korea's democratization movement, where she actively challenged authoritarian rule and paid a personal price through imprisonment and torture. This formative experience instilled in her a lifelong commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and upholding human rights.
Throughout her legislative and executive careers, Han consistently prioritized policies aimed at fostering a more just and equitable society. As a legislator, she championed issues such as labor rights for irregular workers, stricter environmental regulations, and accountability for industrial pollution, reflecting a broad commitment to protecting the vulnerable and ensuring public welfare. Her advocacy for the abolition of the National Security Law also demonstrated her dedication to civil liberties and a more open democratic society.
As Prime Minister, she sought to implement policies that supported economic fairness and social safety nets. Her post-premiership political campaigns, particularly her bid for Seoul mayor, further articulated her vision for social justice, emphasizing increased public spending on employment, welfare, and education, alongside the provision of universal services like free school lunches and expanded childcare.
Her tenure as the first chairperson of the Saram Saraneun Sesang Roh Moo-hyun Foundation after President Roh's passing solidified her role in continuing the legacy of a progressive government focused on "a world where people live together." Even when facing severe legal challenges, Han and her supporters consistently framed her struggle as a fight against political oppression and for fundamental justice, thereby reinforcing her image as a symbol of resistance for democratic values and social equity within South Korea's progressive movements. Her career underscores a persistent effort to deepen democracy and ensure social fairness for all citizens.
12. Public Perception and Evaluation
Han Myeong-sook's public perception and evaluation are largely characterized by a dichotomy between her groundbreaking achievements and the controversies that have defined her later career.
On one hand, she is widely praised for her pioneering role as South Korea's first female Prime Minister, a significant milestone that broke traditional barriers in a male-dominated political landscape. Her early career as a dedicated women's rights and democracy activist is viewed positively, highlighting her courage and commitment to social justice. Her leadership in establishing the Ministry for Gender Equality and her efforts to pass key legislation like the Maternity Protection Act are recognized as substantial contributions to advancing gender equality and social welfare in South Korea. Supporters often commend her principled stance and diligent work ethic in various ministerial and parliamentary roles. Her public image is frequently associated with progressive values, a commitment to human rights, and a steady, maternal leadership style that resonated with segments of the public.
On the other hand, her public image has been significantly shaped by the high-profile legal challenges and her eventual conviction for illegal political funding. While she and her political allies consistently argued that these investigations were politically motivated "oppression" orchestrated by conservative governments, the legal processes and final Supreme Court ruling led to considerable public debate and criticism. The controversy surrounding her changing stances on certain policies, such as the KOR-US FTA and the Jeju Naval Base, and an incident involving stepping on the national flag during a memorial ceremony, also contributed to mixed public opinion, particularly from conservative viewpoints. For some, the conviction marred her legacy, raising questions about political ethics and accountability.
Despite these criticisms, her supporters often see her as a resilient figure who endured political persecution, reinforcing her image as a defender of democracy and a champion for the people. Her ultimate special amnesty, while welcomed by her supporters as a restoration of justice, also sparked debate regarding its justification given outstanding forfeiture payments, highlighting the deep political divisions surrounding her case. Overall, Han Myeong-sook remains a complex and symbolic figure in South Korean politics, celebrated for her historic achievements and progressive ideals, yet also defined by the legal battles and political controversies that accompanied her journey.