Kim Hae-young "Deep Apology to Seoul Citizens and the People" First Apology from Ruling Party Leadership

Kim Hae-young Calls for Party Introspection to Prevent Scandals Among Senior Officials
Lee Hae-chan Makes No Specific Remarks on Late Mayor Park Won-soon's Controversy...

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Jin-young] Amid ongoing controversy over political tributes to the late Park Won-soon, Mayor of Seoul, Kim Hae-young, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, made a candid statement at the Supreme Council meeting, saying, “It is necessary for the party to reflect and establish measures to prevent any unfortunate incidents involving high-ranking officials in the future.” On the same day, Lee Hae-chan, the party leader, did not make any particular remarks regarding this matter.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

At the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly on the morning of the 13th, Rep. Kim stated, “The capital city Seoul unexpectedly entered a proxy administration system. As a member of the party, I offer my deepest apologies to the citizens of Seoul and the people of the nation.”

He added, “I once again express my condolences on Mayor Park’s death. It is hard for anyone to deny his dedication as a civic activist and administrator,” but emphasized, “At the same time, there must never be any criticism or secondary harm toward the victim.”

He further said, “The Democratic Party will do everything possible to ensure that there are no disruptions in the duties of the Seoul mayor.”

Meanwhile, at the meeting, party leader Lee Hae-chan stated, “At least during the funeral period, I think it is best to approach this with a spirit of mutual mourning and a mindset of nurturing the community together.” On the 10th, when asked by reporters about the party’s response to the sexual harassment allegations against the late Mayor Park Won-soon, Lee responded by saying, “That is rude,” which sparked controversy. Floor leader Kim Tae-nyeon also made no special remarks regarding Mayor Park on the same day.