Prime Minister nominee steps down

Prime Minister nominee Moon Chang-keuk gave up his name Tuesday morning as criticism of his historical view lingered despite his efforts to attenuate the negative public opinion.

The step-down comes two weeks after President Park Geun-hye designated the former journalist at the JoongAng Ilbo to replace the incumbent Prime Minister Chung Hong-won.

"She [President Park] is the one who brought me to this position and also the one who can withdraw the nomination," said Moon in a press conference at 10 a.m. at the government complex in Gwanghwamun, central Seoul. "I want to help out President Park Geun-hye."

Presidential spokesman Min Kyung-wook said in a briefing following Moon's press conference that President Park thinks it is a shame that Moon could not make it to the confirmation hearing.

BY SEO JI-EUN [spring@joongang.co.kr]