"20s Youth Say 'Won't Vote Even If Paid,' Criticize Song Young-gil"

20s "These days, 'Do you support the ruling party?' has a derogatory meaning"... Song Young-gil "It's like sitting on a bed of nails"

Song Young-gil, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is taking a commemorative photo with attendees at the 20s Youth Invitation Meeting held on Coming-of-Age Day at the National Assembly on the 17th.
[Photo by Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Choyoung] On the 17th, Song Young-gil, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, received blunt criticism from people in their 20s.

At the 'Coming of Age Day' commemorative meeting held at the National Assembly that morning, attendees poured out criticisms toward the Democratic Party, saying things like "These days, supporting the Democratic Party is more of an expression of contempt."

The meeting was attended by about eight young people in their 20s, including Song Young-gil, the host Representative Jeon Yong-gi, Chief Spokesperson Ko Yong-jin, Secretary-General Yoon Kwan-seok, and university student party members belonging to the Democratic Party's University Student Committee.

Kim Han-miru, who entered university this year, directly criticized the Democratic Party's hypocrisy by saying, "I thought the Democratic Party would handle various scandals fairly without bias, but the reality was different," adding, "I think that's why some people left one by one."

Kim also referred to Gyeonggi Governor Lee Jae-myung's remark about "10 million won for a world trip for high school graduates" and former leader Lee Nak-yeon's pledge to provide "30 million won social start-up funds upon military discharge," stating, "Young people no longer fall for such pledges and do not give their votes."

Leader Song told the attendees, "On one hand, I feel like I'm sitting on a bed of nails, and I feel sorry and regretful," adding, "I understand well that it is difficult for you to freely talk about hope and focus on planning your future. As a member of the older generation, I feel responsible."

He continued, "The definition and fairness of youth are much stricter than those of the older generation. Human progress has always been about the younger surpassing the older," and stated, "I will strive to willingly open the way and accept criticism from the younger generation."

After the meeting, Representative Jeon told reporters, "Leader Song said he would accept and embrace all criticisms and suggestions for change, whether harsh or positive."

It is known that the young people voiced opinions such as, "We must accept public sentiment, not try to teach," "Rather than how much money is given, institutional improvements for procedural fairness are more necessary," and "Policies that encompass the entire 20s generation, not just 20-something men (Idaenam), are needed."