Kim Dae-ho's "3040 illogical and ignorant" disparagement controversy... Kim Sung-sik "Doubts political competence"

Disciplinary Action Likely to Commence Soon

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hye-min] Kim Dae-ho, the United Future Party candidate running for Seoul Gwanak-gap in the April 15 general election, has sparked controversy by stating that people in their mid-30s to 40s possess enormous ignorance and delusion.

On the 6th, at a Seoul election committee meeting, Kim said, "They were born into a country that was somewhat livable, and they seem to think that the reason South Korea is only at this level is because of conservatives, reactionaries, or vested interests."

He added, "Their perception could be a driving force for development, but since they do not understand how South Korea has grown this much, they are moving in a way that ruthlessly destroys the existing momentum," and claimed, "The 60s and 70s generation and those in their 50s have logical problem awareness, but these people have no logic."

This remark sparked controversy over disparaging the 30s and 40s generation, and Kim did not back down, stating on his Facebook, "Their coldness can be a driving force for reflection and innovation, but those who go beyond that to emit contempt and hatred should accurately understand why South Korea has become a country far below expectations." The controversy has spread again. It is known that the party has initiated disciplinary procedures, keeping open the possibility of expulsion.

Kim Seong-sik, an independent candidate running in Gwanak-gap, immediately criticized Kim through his Facebook.

He said, "Korean society has experienced rapid development, but the life processes each generation has gone through are so different that it is difficult to fully understand each other, and every generation has its own life and concerns," and criticized, "His remarks show how much he usually disregards and looks down on voters, beyond generational issues."

Candidate Kim Seong-sik continued, "His remarks are precisely the result of ignorance and delusion that incite generational conflict. Many young office workers and couples in their 30s and 40s live in Gwanak as well, so how can such a candidate do politics in Gwanak?" and sharply criticized, "His basics as a politician are questionable."