Pyo Chang-won: "Still in term but treated like a non-elected, sidelined... Packed like acorns"

On the morning of the 26th, Pyo Chang-won, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, shared his thoughts four days before the end of his term as a member of the National Assembly on MBC Radio's "Good Morning FM with Jang Sung-kyu."
Photo by MBC Radio "Good Morning FM with Jang Sung-kyu" broadcast screen capture

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Seul-gi] Representative Pyo Chang-won of the Democratic Party of Korea shared his thoughts four days before the end of his term as a member of the National Assembly.

On the morning of the 26th, appearing as a guest on MBC Radio's "Good Morning FM with Jang Sung-kyu," Representative Pyo said, "(My expression is actually brighter as my term comes to an end) I apologize."

During the broadcast, Representative Pyo said, "There are people who continue to serve the country, but (for me) my expression is getting brighter and my skin is glowing, so I feel a bit sorry."

He added, "Although my term remains, since I am not the elected candidate, I feel like cold rice. No one pays attention, and people wonder 'Why hasn't he left yet?' I have a term, but I will only become free once it ends. Although my status is that of a National Assembly member, no one calls me, and I get kicked around like an acorn."

He continued, "The remaining task is to settle the accounts. I have to thoroughly organize and report without a single error. Secretary Yang Won-seon in charge is working hard. I am greeting people here and there and wrapping up the legislative parts," adding, "I have already cleared out the office. I am waiting for the last day of my term to end."

When MC Jang Sung-kyu asked, "Do you feel relieved or regretful?" Representative Pyo replied, "Right now, I feel both relieved and cautious. Among men, the saying goes, 'Even falling leaves must be careful in the last days of service.' I hope nothing happens during this time."

Representative Pyo said, "Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I have not had the leisure to reflect on personal thoughts or situations. I think I will consider personal matters once this ends quickly," adding, "There are still many difficult issues, and our party is burdened by various allegations, which weighs heavily on my mind."