The debate intensified on Friday over requests by some conservative politicians to release imprisoned conglomerate owners in order to revitalize the nation’s sluggish economy.

The ruling Saenuri Party’s floor leader Lee Wan-koo said he was willing to bring up the issue at the party’s Supreme Council meeting and consult with the main opposition party. Lee’s remark came two days after Saenuri chairman Kim Moo-sung said the government should grant parole to imprisoned businessmen considering their important role in the economy. Finance Minister Choi Kyung-hwan also fueled the controversy as he was found to have recommended the presidential office to release top businessmen.

Industry insiders say the absence of owners or key members of the family-run conglomerates could delay the companies’ key operations. Politicians also argue that the government should release businessmen to revive business investments and prop up the nation’s slowing economy.

Amid growing controversy, Cheong Wa Dae spokesman Min Kyung-wook told reporters on Friday that he was unaware of whether the presidential office is considering granting parole to businessmen. But the Justice Ministry has the deciding authority on the matter, not Cheong Wa Dae, Min said.

President Park Geun-hye, during her campaign, vowed to administer the law strictly and treat all criminal offenders equally. She has not granted presidential pardons to any politicians or businessmen in prison since taking office in early 2013.

But Min’s remarks reflect Cheong Wa Dae’s concern over public criticism if the president grants pardon or parole to businessmen who committed a crime. The presidential pardon or the Justice Ministry granting paroles can be viewed as government favoritism to conglomerates.

The timing is not right, some observers say, noting the public outrage sparked by the “nut rage” incident involving Heather Cho, former vice president of Korean Air. Cho is also suspected of using abusive language and violence when she forced a cabin manager to get off the plane.

By Cho Chung-un (christory@heraldcorp.com)