Fukushima Nuclear Plant TF Inactive for Two and a Half Years
US Supports Japan, "Isn't This a Diplomatic Disaster?"
People Power Party Demands Apology from Kim Sang-hee and Walks Out
Hong Nam-ki, Acting Prime Minister, attended the government-related questions on economic issues held at the National Assembly plenary session on the 20th and is seen talking with Park Byeong-seok, Speaker of the National Assembly. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@
[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunju Lee] The government, which has been operating a Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant Task Force (TF) under the coordination of the Office for Government Policy Coordination since October 2018, has been criticized for failing to produce meaningful results.
On the 20th, during a parliamentary question session, Kim Seon-gyo, a member of the People Power Party, asked Hong Nam-ki, Acting Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister for Economy, "This TF created a confidential status report last October. The document states, 'Tritium emits very weak beta radiation causing only internal exposure, is difficult to bioaccumulate, and the possibility of significant exposure through seafood consumption is low. Marine dispersion means that even if tritium released into the ocean reaches domestic waters years later, it will move and dilute along currents, so no significant impact is expected.' Is this document prepared by our country (government)?"
Acting Prime Minister Hong replied, "I have not seen that document," adding, "It seems to be a summary of expert opinions collected."
When Kim asked what the TF had done over the past two and a half years since its establishment, Hong said, "I have not reviewed the detailed response materials from the past two and a half years, so I cannot speak in detail," and added, "The government has also been working on multiple fronts during the two and a half years of TF operation..." He then responded "No" when asked if there was scientific evidence to confidently assert that the (contaminated water discharge) is harmless.
Regarding the visit of John Kerry, the U.S. President’s Special Envoy for Climate, Kim pointed out, "Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong requested U.S. cooperation, but the U.S. clearly indicated no intention to intervene. On the 13th, when Japan announced the ocean discharge, the U.S. supported Japan, saying it complies with international standards. Isn’t this a diplomatic disaster?" Acting Prime Minister Hong responded with a principled answer, "Japan made that decision without consulting neighboring countries, including our country." When urged to respond strongly, he said, "Since this measure was taken unilaterally without sufficient government consultation, we will respond strongly."
Subsequently, the People Power Party collectively walked out, demanding an apology for Kim Sang-hee, the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, who the previous day had told the opposition party, "You’re excited, you’re excited."
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