Won Hee-ryong: "If Moon dislikes the private residence controversy, he should not hold public office"

At the 389th Jeju Provincial Council 2nd Regular Session administrative questions, Jeju Governor Won Hee-ryong is responding to questions.
[Photo by Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Eun-young] Won Hee-ryong, Governor of Jeju Province from the People Power Party, criticized President Moon Jae-in, saying, "Any citizen of the Republic of Korea has the right to demand an explanation regarding the assets acquired by high-ranking public officials during their term," and added, "If you don't like that, then you shouldn't be a public official."

On the 14th, Governor Won posted an article titled "Why do politics and public office?" on his social media (SNS).

Won stated, "Until now, I have never raised any issues regarding President Moon Jae-in's Yangsan residence," adding, "Not because it was petty or embarrassing, but because I thought an appropriate explanation would come before his retirement."

He continued, "When I ran for Jeju Governor, I sold my house in Mok-dong and bought a house in Jeju. After being elected, I turned the governor's official residence into a children's library," and said, "Knowing how a large, luxurious house detached from public view can ruin a person, I wanted to be cautious myself." He then pointed out, "We did what was natural, but it was surprising how many people do not do what is natural. A private residence is not an official residence. It is personal property that can be gifted or inherited," and emphasized, "All power is merely delegated authority."

Additionally, Won said, "Serving in public office is truly a grateful matter. It provides an opportunity to contribute to various issues. The people temporarily entrust power to you to do that work. You must not mistake that power as your own," reiterating his point.