Gonggwanwi Indicates Possibility of Reconsidering Cutoff Based on Apology
"Will Not Engage in Any Actions That Distort the Essence of 5·18"
Former People Power Party lawmaker Kim Jin-tae is holding a press conference on the 18th at the protest site in front of the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, apologizing for his remarks related to the May 18 incident and Buddhism. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@
[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] Former lawmaker Kim Jin-tae, who was cut off after challenging the People Power Party's gubernatorial primary in Gangwon Province, apologized on the 18th for his past actions and remarks, including those related to the May 18 incident. The People Power Party's nomination management committee, which decided to cut him off due to his statements, has left open the possibility of "reconsidering the cut-off" on the condition of an apology.
Kim, who is currently on a hunger strike in front of the National Assembly under a tent, told reporters, "While fasting, I deeply reflected on my past political activities," adding, "I thought I had lived trying to uphold law and principles, but I reviewed whether I had caused emotional harm to others, and there were regrettable matters."
He apologized regarding the controversial May 18 debate he hosted. Kim said, "It is true that I co-hosted the May 18 public hearing related to the theory of North Korean military involvement," and added, "I must take political responsibility for some remarks made at that event that were out of touch with public sentiment." He continued, "As one of the event organizers, I bow my head and apologize to the people," and promised, "I vow never to engage in any actions that distort the essence of the May 18 Democratic Movement again."
Regarding his 2015 statement advocating the use of public authority at Jogyesa Temple when Han Sang-gyun, then head of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, entered the temple, he said, "I said that out of a desire to uphold national law and order, but it was clearly excessive," and added, "If it were now, I would not make such remarks." He apologized, saying, "I bow my head and apologize to the great monks and Buddhists nationwide," and acknowledged, "At that time, the Jogye Order patiently endured the confrontation between the KCTU and the police." He further said, "I learned a lot from their efforts to embrace the suffering people," and expressed regret, "When I was in a difficult situation, I failed to fully consider the other party's circumstances, which I deeply regret. I will be more mindful to prevent such incidents in the future."
Earlier, the People Power Party's nomination committee cut Kim off from the Gangwon gubernatorial primary due to his past remarks. However, as objections to the cut-off decision arose, the committee stated it would consider reconsideration on the condition of Kim's "public apology." Kim Haeng, the committee spokesperson, said, "If he makes a public apology, the committee can discuss it."
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