Korea University professor emeritus Choi Jang-jip stepped down as the chairman of the board of Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo’s think tank, raising concerns for the independent lawmaker’s efforts to expand his power base.

Since taking Seoul’s Nowon-C constituency in April, Ahn has distanced himself from established progressive parties as he attempts to found his own power base, a part of which is the policy think tank.

Choi is reported to have resigned from Ahn’s think tank Policy Network Tomorrow due to differences in his expectations and realities of the role.

“(I) thought that the role would be developing policies or providing a theoretical basis as a political scientist, but in reality a political role was included,” Choi was quoted as saying in the local media.

According to reports citing unidentified associates, Choi disapproved of Ahn being too sensitive of the media and public opinion. In addition, the two are said to have experienced difficulties in narrowing their differences on a number of issues including unification.

As for Ahn, he said that he became aware of the decision on Saturday.

“I’ve heard that Choi found it difficult to handle that the things he said as an academic were interpreted politically,” Ahn told reporters on Monday. He added that Choi’s words should not be “twisted or disparaged by adding political interpretations.”

As for their relationship in the future, Ahn said that he would discuss the matter with Choi but that he would continue to seek advice from him.

By Choi He-suk (cheesuk@heraldcorp.com)