The National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK) faces a credibility crisis as chairperson Song Doo-hwan’s term nears its end in September.

Concerns have arisen about the potential appointment of an unfit successor, with the two incumbent NHRCK commissioners, Lee Choong-sang and Kim Yong-won, at the center of controversy due to their recent actions undermining the principles they are meant to uphold.

Lee drew widespread criticism for stating that “gays wear diapers” due to their sexual practices, which led to extensive media coverage. In response, he launched an unsuccessful lawsuit against journalistsfor characterizing his comments as