On the 21st, Hwang Kyo-ahn, leader of the Liberty Korea Party, announced a pet policy under the slogan "Another Precious Family" at a pet-friendly cafe in Mapo-gu, Seoul. Photo by MBC 'News Desk' (above), Yonhap News Agency (below)
[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Seul-gi] On the 21st, Hwang Kyo-ahn, leader of the Liberty Korea Party, referred to the death of a companion animal as 'jakgo (作故)' during the announcement of companion animal pledges.
'Jakgo' is an honorific expression used for the death of a person, meaning that the person has passed away and become a deceased (故人).
When talking about the death of a companion animal, the metaphorical expression 'crossing the rainbow bridge' is often used.
On the 21st, Leader Hwang held a companion animal pledge announcement under the slogan "Another Precious Family" at a dog-friendly cafe in Mapo-gu, Seoul.
While announcing the pledge, Leader Hwang held a dog and said, "A few years ago, I raised a companion animal, and after 14 years, (the companion animal) 'passed away (jakgo).' When I sent him off, my heart was heavy and it hurt."
As Leader Hwang's remarks became known, some criticized him, saying he mistakenly used an honorific expression meant for people, mocking him.
In particular, criticism of Leader Hwang has also emerged following a recent incident where the Liberty Korea Party sent jerky as a Lunar New Year gift to the Jogye Order under his name but later recalled it.
The Liberty Korea Party's companion animal pledge is one of the party's 21st general election pledges aimed at improving the welfare of companion animal owners and their pets.
The party plans to amend the Value-Added Tax Act to exempt VAT on companion animal medical expenses (excluding cosmetic surgeries) and also to revise the Restriction of Special Taxation Act to provide a 15% income tax deduction benefit during year-end tax settlements.
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