[Jeon Du-hwan Death] Ruling Party: "We will neither send condolences nor wreaths"... Opposition: "We mourn but leave condolence visits to individual judgment"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] The ruling and opposition parties expressed conflicting positions regarding condolences for the late former President Jeon Du-hwan. While the Democratic Party of Korea stated that neither condolences nor floral tributes would be acceptable, the People Power Party decided to send floral tributes but leave the decision to pay respects up to the discretion of its members. Lee Jun-seok, leader of the People Power Party, took a distancing stance by stating he would not pay respects.

Song Young-gil, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, announced on the 23rd regarding the death of former President Jeon Du-hwan, "The Democratic Party does not allow floral tributes, condolences, or a state funeral."

On the same day, through Facebook, Song said, "Although his biological lifespan has ended and the statute of limitations for criminal prosecution has expired, civil lawsuits, historical judgment, and fact-finding will continue." He added, "I feel anger and sorrow at his foolishness for never seeking forgiveness for his crimes until the end," and "I remember the numerous deaths during his rule starting with the coup d'?tat, and the harsh lives endured by many pro-democracy activists."

He continued, "I earnestly hoped he would sincerely apologize even now. For the spirits of May who defended democracy, and for us who live and breathe within that democracy, this was something that had to be addressed," but raised his voice saying, "However, even that earnest hope can no longer be fulfilled."

He added, "The path to revealing the truth of history and establishing justice will continue."

Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party's presidential candidate, mentioned the revocation of former presidents' honors during a meeting with reporters, saying, "It is appropriate to refer to him as Jeon Du-hwan first," and responded, "I am currently not considering paying respects."

On the other hand, the opposition showed a cautious attitude. They kept a distance regarding condolences but expressed mourning.

Lee Jun-seok stated on social media that day, "I have no plans to pay respects separately at the late former President Jeon Du-hwan’s funeral home," indicating he would not visit the mourning site.

However, he said, "I will send floral tributes on behalf of the party," meaning they would observe formal etiquette such as sending flowers.

He also said, "Party members may freely decide whether to pay respects based on their personal connections or judgments regarding the deceased," indicating that he would not block the act of paying respects itself.

Earlier, Yoon Seok-youl, the People Power Party’s presidential candidate, who had expressed intentions to pay respects, also withdrew his position. Lee Yang-su, senior spokesperson for the People Power Party, stated, "Regarding condolences for the former president, Candidate Yoon has decided not to pay respects."

Ahn Cheol-soo, the presidential candidate of the People’s Party, is also reported to have no plans to pay respects. Ahn Hye-jin, spokesperson for the People’s Party, said, "We pray for the former president’s repose and express condolences," but added, "Modern history was darkened by him, and too many people had to live difficult lives. Such unfortunate history must never be repeated."