Kim Tae-nyeon "People Power Party's Mass Protest Damages National Assembly's Dignity... Deep Regret"

Kim Tae-nyeon, Floor Leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, and Han Jeong-ae, Chair of the Policy Planning Committee, are attending the Policy Coordination Meeting held at the National Assembly on the 29th. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Wondara] Kim Tae-nyeon, floor leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, criticized the People Power Party's picket protests during President Moon Jae-in's policy speech as an "undignified attitude."

On the morning of the 29th at a policy coordination meeting held at the National Assembly, Floor Leader Kim said, "The loud shouting and group protests by the People Power Party against President Moon Jae-in were not a good sight by anyone's standards," adding, "I think they have damaged the dignity of the National Assembly themselves. I express my deep regret."

He continued, "Every political action affects the people," and emphasized, "Because of the undignified attitude shown by the People Power Party yesterday, I am concerned that it may further amplify social conflicts among our voters, the people. I hope they reflect on themselves. Innovation is not just about words."

Regarding the People Power Party's announcement to cut at least 15 trillion won or more ahead of the budget review, he pointed out, "Before even starting the budget review in earnest, they declared they would cut at least 50% of the Korean New Deal budget," adding, "They are demanding cuts without reviewing the detailed items." He further emphasized, "Anyone can see that this means they intend to hold even this budget hostage. Budget deliberations should not be a subject of political strife but a productive forum for national governance discussions competing with policies and alternatives."

Meanwhile, Floor Leader Kim announced that the full revision of the Local Autonomy Act will be processed in this regular session of the National Assembly. He said, "Today marks 25 years of local autonomy. However, there is still a long way to go for decentralization," adding, "To foster regional self-sustainability and coexistence, it is necessary to defend autonomy rights. We intend to process the full revision of the Local Autonomy Act, which transfers substantial authority to local governments, in this regular session."

Regarding the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), he said, "With Halloween approaching, the public's concern is high," and added, "Some clubs have decided to close voluntarily on weekends. I hope this spirit of gratitude spreads."