Rational Criticism Within the Party
Prevents Even Greater Defeat
We Must Have Rational Discussions
[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Chae-eun] Park Yong-jin, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, recently commented on the ruling party's hardline supporters sending critical messages to some lawmakers by referring to them as the 'First-term Five Traitors.' He said, "If even that level of reflection and expression of opinion is suppressed by the flood of messages and comments, the public will be even more disappointed by the Democratic Party's rigidity."
Earlier, on the 9th, five first-term lawmakers in their 20s and 30s from the Democratic Party?Oh Young-hwan, Lee So-young, Jang Kyung-tae, Jang Cheol-min, and Jeon Yong-gi?issued a joint statement. They pointed out that the cause of the April 7 by-election defeat was due to "excessive defense of Cho Kuk causing division, and double standards," emphasizing the need to abandon arrogance and dogmatism and move closer to the people.
In response, some hardline supporters of the ruling party have been demanding the expulsion of these lawmakers, labeling them as the 'First-term Five Traitors.' Some supporters even posted the contact information of the five lawmakers on their social media, seemingly encouraging attacks against them.
On the 11th, through social media, Representative Park said, "I believe that the party members and supporters who criticize are only hoping for the success of the Moon Jae-in administration, the party's innovation, and the reestablishment of the government." He added, "For this, the expression of diverse opinions within the Democratic Party and democratic opinion gathering are essential processes of energy condensation, and without the will for innovation and change, victory is difficult."
He continued, "The five lawmakers in their 20s and 30s properly pointed out the direction of the Democratic Party's reflection and innovation, which might have otherwise fallen into an ineffective reflection statement through a separate declaration." He praised their courage, saying, "They spoke honestly about very painful and bitter issues and braved criticism and reproach."
Representative Park emphasized, "Rational criticism within a political party acts as a breakwater that prevents greater defeat and problems." He noted, "If people or parties close their mouths and ears, they become isolated and disconnected from the world." He further stated, "We must open our ears to the voices of party members and the public and open our mouths. That is how rational debate and innovative change will begin."
He concluded, "If we firmly uphold the line of pragmatism and prioritizing people's livelihoods and practice politics aligned with the public's common sense and expectations, the public's disappointment and anger will turn back into hope and expectation." He pledged, "I will also join forces and work together so that this election defeat can become the starting point for victory in the presidential election."
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