Lee Hae-chan 'Park Won-soon Sexual Harassment Allegation' Question Sparks Outburst: "It's Not Polite"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy reporters Wondara and Lim Chunhan] Lee Hae-chan, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, criticized reporters' questions about the 'sexual harassment allegations' at the funeral hall of Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon, calling it "disrespectful."

On the 10th at noon, Lee visited Mayor Park's funeral hall set up at Seoul National University Hospital and paid his respects for about 30 minutes. When asked by reporters whether the party planned to respond to the sexual harassment allegations, he shouted, "That is disrespectful. Are you seriously going to talk about that here? There are at least some things you should refrain from!"

Lee emphasized his connection with Mayor Park. He said, "He has been a longtime friend with whom I have participated in the democratization movement since 1970," adding, "I am deeply saddened to hear the shocking news that my friend has passed away."

He continued, "He cultivated the previously barren field of civic movements in our society and led Seoul's administration well for 10 years. Now that he has left so suddenly, I cannot help but feel a deep sense of loss." He also said, "We will do our utmost to support the realization of Mayor Park's will and philosophy for the country and Seoul. It is truly regrettable."

Earlier that morning at the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly, Lee recalled, "The deceased was a gentle person with strong will and determination, embodying strength within gentleness."

Meanwhile, it is known that Lee will serve as co-chairman of the joint funeral committee for Mayor Park's funeral, which will be held as a Seoul Metropolitan City funeral.

Democratic Party spokesperson Heo Yoon-jung said in a briefing that morning, "If it were a family funeral or another form of funeral, it would be difficult, but assuming it becomes an official Seoul City funeral, Leader Lee is likely to serve as co-chairman of the funeral committee." He added, "Leader Lee mentioned in the Supreme Council's closed meeting that because of his long-standing relationship with Mayor Park, if the funeral proceeds as an official Seoul City funeral, he would take on the role of funeral committee chairman in that context."