[Lee Jun-seok Disciplinary Action] Yoon "Regrettable as a Party Member"

Kwon Seong-dong Floor Leader: "Ethics Committee Resolution Takes Effect Immediately... Acting Duty System"

Lee Jun-seok, the leader of the People Power Party, is attending the Central Ethics Committee meeting held on the evening of the 7th in the party's main conference room at the National Assembly. (Photo by Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporters Kum Boryeong, Kwon Hyunji] The People Power Party Ethics Committee on the 8th imposed a ‘6-month suspension of party membership rights’ on Party Leader Lee Jun-seok, who is suspected of 'sexual bribery and evidence destruction instruction.' This is unprecedented in constitutional history to impose a suspension of party membership rights on a sitting party leader.

Lee Yang-hee, the party ethics committee chairperson, announced that this decision was made after a marathon meeting starting from the evening of the 7th. Leader Lee opposed the ethics committee’s decision, stating that he has "no intention of stepping down as party leader."

Internal strife within the ruling party is expected to intensify. Leader Lee said, "The disciplinary authority of the ethics committee lies with the party leader," adding, "If the situation is not convincing, I intend to withhold disciplinary action."

The ruling party decided to establish an acting leadership system for the time being. Floor leader Kwon Seong-dong said, "The ethics committee’s resolution takes effect immediately," and "(Even if Leader Lee appeals) the acting leadership system will continue."

President Yoon Seok-yeol expressed, "As a member of the party, I feel regret," but drew a line by saying, "It is not appropriate to comment on party affairs."