Lee Nak-yeon, Byun Chang-heum Summoned and Rebuked Over LH Suspicion "Spoke to an Extreme Degree" (Comprehensive)

Lee Nak-yeon, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is attending the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly on the 5th and delivering an opening remark. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Chae-eun] On the 5th, Lee Nak-yeon, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, strongly reprimanded Byeon Chang-heum, Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, by summoning him to the National Assembly regarding the speculation allegations of Korea Land and Housing Corporation (LH) employees in new towns.

On the same day, Lee met with Minister Byeon and Jang Chung-mo, acting president of LH, at the National Assembly. It was reported that Minister Byeon reported on the investigation details concerning the speculation allegations of LH employees during this meeting.

After the Supreme Council meeting, Lee told reporters, "He said that one must have a sense of responsibility to the extent of volunteering to be investigated before anyone else," and added, "'There must never be any behavior that gives even the slightest impression of defending that organization,' and 'We must be much more sensitive to the anger and disappointment of the people.'"

Lee also explained, "Basically, a thorough and comprehensive investigation must be conducted. Since the government has said it will do so, we will wait and see for now," and added, "I spoke very harshly about the attitude of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and LH in this matter." However, when asked whether he held Minister Byeon responsible, who was LH president at the time when employees concentrated on land purchases, Lee replied, "I did not speak that directly."

Minister Byeon also told reporters after the meeting with Lee, "(Lee) said not to have any prejudice, to investigate thoroughly and based on principles, and to disclose the results to the public."

When asked what discussions he had with Lee, Minister Byeon said, "We talked about follow-up measures and specific investigation details." He did not respond to the question about whether he was asked to resign from his ministerial position.