"Former President Pardon, Incumbent Also Former... Expecting Empathy Perspective"
[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] Joo Ho-young, floor leader of the People Power Party, strongly criticized President Moon Jae-in's New Year's press conference. Regarding the issue of pardoning former presidents, he mentioned putting oneself in others' shoes and urged a change in attitude.
On the 19th, Joo, at the People Power Party floor strategy meeting held at the National Assembly, pointed out, "It was a disappointing occasion filled with excuses without even the minimum reflection or remorse for causing the current crisis due to the mismanagement of state affairs over the past four years." He downgraded the press conference by saying, "It was a press conference that eliminated any expectations that the country would improve during the remaining term."
He also expressed a negative stance on the view that pardoning former presidents is premature. Joo said, "It was nothing more or less than testing public opinion," and added, "Most opinions say that pardons help national unity, so I cannot understand how it harms unity."
He continued, "The sitting president also becomes a former president over time," and said, "Once they become former presidents, they might be in a situation where they themselves could be subject to pardons. I always expect an attitude of putting oneself in others' shoes."
Regarding the conflict between Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae and Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-youl, he also took issue with the mention of a 'difference in perspective.' Joo said, "In this administration, they cannot even reconcile differences in perspective or opinion and try to impose disciplinary actions," and added, "If it is a difference in perspective or opinion, do not distort the fact that the entire nation has been tired of seeing extremely hostile situations."
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