"Received the news late through the press conference"
"A talented person... will definitely play other roles"
Shin Ji-ye, Senior Vice Chairman of the New Era Committee of the People Power Party (center), is taking a commemorative photo at the welcoming ceremony for new recruits on the 20th. / Photo by Yonhap News
[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Ju-hyung] Shin Ji-ye, Senior Vice Chairperson of the People Power Party's New Era Committee, described Lee Jun-seok's announcement on the 21st that he would step down from his position in the party's election campaign committee as a "heartbreaking event," but added that "he can certainly take on other roles."
In an interview with 'YTN' on the same day, Shin said of Lee, "He is such a versatile and talented person."
When asked by the host, "Didn't you say you would have a meal with Lee?" she replied, "I haven't contacted him yet, and I also learned about (his resignation as campaign committee chair) belatedly through the press conference," adding, "It would be difficult for me to contact him immediately."
She further said, "I thought I should wait for the press conference to end and then find a good time to reach out."
Shin, who had previously engaged in several heated debates with Lee on the topic of 'gender conflict,' was recruited on the 20th to the New Era Committee directly under Yoon Seok-youl, the People Power Party's presidential candidate.
At that time, Lee expressed discomfort, saying, "(If Shin makes) statements that go against the party's basic policies, I have no choice but to restrain and correct them," but emphasized, "If Shin participates in our party and works to help Yoon's election, I have no intention of doubting that goodwill."
Lee Jun-seok, the leader of the People Power Party, held a press conference on the afternoon of the 21st at the party leader's meeting room in the National Assembly, announcing his intention to resign as the permanent co-chairman of the election committee. / Photo by Yonhap News
In response, Shin said in a radio interview on the same day, "The concerns that Lee has will not arise," and added, "First, I will meet with Lee. I plan to treat him to a meal."
Meanwhile, Lee announced on the 21st that he would step down from his position as the People Power Party's standing election campaign chairperson.
At a National Assembly press conference that day, he said, "No matter how Cho Soo-jin, the Supreme Council member, apologizes, I have no intention of accepting it," adding, "It is fine to take over and proceed with what the Public Relations and Media Headquarters prepared, or to scrap all the plans. I have no lingering attachments."
When asked by reporters whether he had consulted with candidate Yoon before deciding to resign from the campaign committee, he replied, "No. I can make personal decisions about my position independently without consulting the candidate," and added, "The ultimate responsibility lies with the presidential candidate, and I respect the candidate's choice."
He also continued his criticism of so-called 'Yoon core associates (Yoon Seok-youl candidate's key insiders).' He said, "Seeing these Yoon core associates who jump in at the right moment and throw out equivocal remarks, I felt a sorrowful thought that this kind of behavior would be repeated throughout the election," and criticized, "It seems they have been given a mistaken confidence that they can do as they please without being criticized in the future."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
