United Future Party Issues "Severe Warning" to Kim Dae-ho over '3040 Disparagement Controversy' (Comprehensive)

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyemin] The United Future Party has issued a stern warning to Kim Dae-ho, the candidate for Seoul Gwanak-gap, who became embroiled in controversy over his 'disparaging remarks about the 30s and 40s generation.'

Lee Jin-bok, the party's general election campaign headquarters chief, released a statement on the afternoon of the 6th, saying, "Regardless of the reason, we apologize to everyone who was hurt by the remarks," and announced that Kim was given a 'stern warning.' He added, "All candidates, including the party's campaign headquarters, will approach the election campaign with greater caution and humility going forward."

Earlier that morning, Kim sparked controversy by saying that people in their mid-30s to 40s hold enormous ignorance and misconceptions. At a Seoul campaign headquarters meeting, he claimed, "Those who were born into a somewhat livable country seem to think that the reason South Korea is only at this level is because of conservatives, reactionaries, and vested interests," and added, "Not knowing how South Korea has grown this much, they are moving in a way that ruthlessly destroys the existing momentum." He also said, "The 60s and 70s generation and those in their 50s have logical problem awareness, but these people have no logic."

These remarks sparked controversy over disparaging the 30s and 40s generation, and Kim further fueled the controversy by saying on his Facebook, "Those who emit contempt and hatred beyond coldness should accurately understand the reasons why South Korea has become a country far below expectations."

Hwang Kyo-ahn, leader of the United Future Party, drew a line by saying, "It is a very inappropriate remark. Such things should not happen." Regarding the possibility of disciplinary action, he left room by saying, "It is under discussion within the party."

Subsequently, Kim posted again on his Facebook, stating, "I bow my head and sincerely apologize for hurting hearts with my thoughtless remarks." However, he explained, "The true intention of my remarks was that the coldness I felt toward the United Future Party during the election campaign should be a whip for the party's reflection and innovation, and that awareness of the problem should be used as a driving force for South Korea's development."

He added, "Regardless of the true intention, it is due to my shortcomings and ignorance," and "I apologize once again to the public and the 30s and 40s generation who were hurt by my careless remarks."

Meanwhile, candidates opposing Kim in Seoul Gwanak-gap unanimously criticized him.

Independent candidate Kim Seong-sik immediately targeted him on his Facebook, saying, "Korean society has very different life experiences across generations amid rapid development. It is difficult to fully understand each other, and every generation has its own life and concerns," and added, "His remarks reveal how much he usually disrespects and looks down on voters, beyond generational issues."

He continued, "Those remarks are the result of ignorance and misconceptions that incite generational conflict. Many young workers and young couples in their 30s and 40s live in Gwanak as well, so how can such a candidate do politics in Gwanak?" and criticized, "His basics as a politician are questionable."

Yoo Ki-hong, the Democratic Party candidate, also said on Facebook, "Kim previously insulted President Moon Jae-in by calling him a 'dolt.' The United Future Party's rude DNA is directed even at the people," and added, "It is disheartening to see political standards fall this low."