Park Yong-jin Apologizes for 'Choo Son Allegations': "Even If Supporters Criticize, I Must Honestly Speak My Mind"

"Those Who Criticize Will Understand Sincerity If You Stay Honest"

On the morning of the 15th, Park Yong-jin, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, stated at the National Assembly Communication Office, "Samsung Securities was generally involved in the merger process of Samsung C&T and Cheil Industries, and financial authorities should launch an investigation."
[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Heo Midam] On the 23rd, Park Yongjin, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, stated, "Politicians must honestly say what they have to say even in situations where they are cursed by supporters, lose elections, or face public neglect."

On the same day, Park mentioned a book titled Leadership of Presidents, which covers the stories of nine U.S. presidents, on his Facebook, saying, "The book talks about how each leader, despite facing different situations and conditions, had to bear the responsible attitude of making lonely and disadvantageous decisions."

After introducing the choices of past U.S. presidents such as Theodore Roosevelt, who stood up against conglomerates, he said, "It shows that the virtue required to become a leader of the national community rather than a prisoner of one's own supporters is 'courage.'"

He continued, "It is never pleasant to be cursed and criticized by opponents or supporters, but I will take the honest path of courageously and frankly saying what I have to say and doing what I have to do."

He added, "If you avoid criticism out of fear, greater regret and criticism will follow later. I believe that if I proceed honestly and responsibly, even those who criticize and dislike me will understand my true intentions."

Also, in a text message sent to reporters on the same day, Park shared the Facebook post and emphasized, "Recently, I have been bombarded with text messages, and the office has received numerous protest calls. Politicians must honestly say what they have to say and do what they have to do."

Park Yong-jin, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, is giving a greeting at the ceremony for the joint use of facilities for industry-academia cooperation held at Seoul City Hall on June 29.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

Earlier, on the 16th, Park faced heavy criticism from pro-Moon Jae-in supporters after saying regarding the allegations of preferential military leave for the son of Minister of Justice Choo Mi-ae, "I feel sorry for the frustration felt by young people."

At that time, he appeared on CBS Radio's Kim Hyun-jung's News Show and apologized for the allegations related to Minister Choo's son, saying, "Education and military service are matters of national interest and a sensitive issue for the people. As a fellow member of the National Assembly, I feel sorry for the allegations themselves."

Immediately after Park's remarks, posts and comments criticizing him flooded the Democratic Party's member bulletin board and his Facebook page.

Netizens expressed their dissatisfaction toward Park with comments such as "You always try to stand out alone and benefit from the Democratic Party," "It is shameful that someone like you is in the Democratic Party," and "Stop acting up." Some even described Park's words and actions as "internal sabotage."