Future United Party Expels Kim Dae-ho Amid '3040 Generation Disparagement' Controversy (Update)

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] The United Future Party has ultimately expelled Kim Dae-ho, the candidate for Seoul Gwanak-gap, who was embroiled in controversy over his derogatory remarks about the 3040 generation.

On the 7th, the United Future Party stated in a press release, "The party leadership has decided to expel candidate Kim in relation to his unacceptable remarks." They plan to hold a party ethics committee meeting to follow up with related procedures.

Previously, Kim sparked controversy by making offensive remarks, claiming the 3040 generation is ignorant. At a Seoul campaign committee meeting on the 6th, he said, "Those born into a somewhat prosperous country seem to think that the reason South Korea is only at this level is because of conservatives, reactionaries, and vested interests," adding, "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 6070 generation and people in their 50s have logic in their awareness of problems, but these people have no logic."

As these remarks spread, controversy arose over the derogatory comments toward the 3040 generation, and the party issued a stern warning to Kim. However, Kim further fueled the controversy by stating 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."

As the controversy grew, Kim apologized again, saying, "I bow my head and sincerely apologize for hurting feelings with my thoughtless remarks," but the party ultimately decided to expel him. Despite the United Korea Party already issuing a warning, the decision to expel him appears to be a strong measure taken out of concern for losing centrist votes ahead of the election.