Lee Jaemyung: "People Power Party's Nomination of Pro-Japanese CIO Chief Is an Insult to the Public"

[Asia Economy, reporter Park Chuleung] On November 11, Gyeonggi Province Governor Lee Jaemyung posted on Facebook an article titled "The People Power Party's Nomination of a Pro-Japanese Candidate for the Chief of the Corruption Investigation Office Is an Insult to the Public," referring to lawyer Seok Donghyun, who was recommended by the People Power Party as a candidate for the head of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO).

Governor Lee linked to an Asia Economy article titled "People Power Party's Nominee Seok Donghyun Said Last Year, 'If It Helps National Security, I Would Become Pro-Japanese'," and criticized, "Lawyer Seok Donghyun is not even qualified to be a candidate."

He continued, "At a rally last year attended by Pastor Jeon Kwanghoon and others, Seok Donghyun not only shamelessly made the outrageous statement, 'As long as it's not an act of treason against the country and the people, I would become pro-Japanese,' while criticizing the government's export restrictions on Japan, but also said, 'It wasn't Japan that set the fire. Honestly, didn't the government ignore and mock Japan with the forced labor rulings?' These remarks caused great pain to the victims of forced labor and their families."

Lee was referring to a speech Seok Donghyun gave at the "10 Million Signatures for Moon Jaein's Resignation Busan Rally" held on August 3 last year.

Governor Lee also pointed out, "He is also the legal representative leading the 'April 15 General Election Nullification Lawsuit,' which even members of his own party do not agree with," and asserted, "It is impossible to insult state authority and deceive the people in this way. The People Power Party must clearly explain to the public its intentions in nominating Seok Donghyun as the CIO chief, and should immediately withdraw the nomination and apologize."

He further emphasized, "The CIO is the passionate outcry of the millions who held candles, and the number one task for eradicating deep-rooted corruption by those who wield power while ignoring the people. Corruption cannot eradicate corruption."