[Asia Economy Reporter Park Cheol-eung] Tae Young-ho, the elected member of the United Future Party, apologized on the 4th for his remarks about North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un's "health abnormality rumors."
In a statement released that day, Tae said, "After Kim Jong-un's appearance, I received a lot of criticism over the past two days and deeply realized the impact of my words. Regardless of the reason, I apologize to the people."
This was a more humble stance compared to his previous remarks on the 2nd, when he said, "As a result, my analysis seems somewhat off" and "Was there really nothing wrong with Kim Jong-un's health over the past 20 days?"
Tae stated, "I know one of the reasons I was chosen as a member of the National Assembly was the expectation for accurate analysis and outlook on North Korean issues. The greater the expectation, the greater the disappointment must have been," adding, "I deeply feel the public's criticism and heavy responsibility. I promise to carry out more cautious and humble legislative activities as a result of this incident."
The Democratic Party of Korea strongly criticized not only Tae but also Ji Seong-ho, the elected member of the Future Korea Party, who made remarks about "99% certainty of death," and demanded their exclusion from the North Korea-related standing committees.
Lee Hae-chan, leader of the Democratic Party, said at the Supreme Council meeting that day, "The reckless reactions to Chairman Kim Jong-un over the past few days and some media reports are deplorable," adding, "The public is very concerned that this deplorable situation is still ongoing. Our party will actively respond going forward." Supreme Council member Seol Hoon also emphasized, "The United Future Party must take a clear stance such as disciplinary procedures against the two elected members."
Additionally, Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Boo-kyum wrote on his Facebook that day, "Both have already violated the two duties stated in the National Assembly oath. They have harmed 'the peaceful reunification of the homeland' and have not 'prioritized national interests.'" Addressing the United Future Party leadership, he said, "If you are a true conservative party, please take this incident as a warning and exclude the two lawmakers from the 'National Defense Committee' and the 'Intelligence Committee.'"
Meanwhile, on the same day, Won Yoo-chul, leader of the Future Korea Party, commented on Ji's remarks, saying, "This is not the party's official position," and added, "I cannot understand why (the government and ruling party) do not demand any apology or prevention of recurrence regarding North Korea's provocations."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
