Lee Jae-myung: "'Pomnage Sapyio' Sang-min Lee's Unforgivable Remarks... Must Be Immediately Dismissed"

Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is attending the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly on the 11th and delivering opening remarks. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, on the 14th criticized Minister of the Interior and Safety Lee Sang-min for his remark "resigning stylishly," calling it "an outrageous statement that goes beyond embarrassment and is unforgivable by the public," and said, "It is astonishing that such an expression could be made in front of the site where many people lost their lives."

Lee said, "Immediate dismissal is appropriate. An unreserved investigation is absolutely necessary," adding, "A special prosecutor is needed instead of a self-investigation to hold the responsible parties criminally accountable," and "Since public interest is high and the public needs to know the cause of this disaster, a parliamentary audit must be promptly conducted."

Park Hong-geun, floor leader of the Democratic Party, also said, "Minister Lee, who made the outrageous remark about 'resigning stylishly' regarding the sacrifice of 158 precious lives, should have already been dismissed and investigated," and added, "Minister Lee, who has failed to take responsibility for the disaster in front of the victims and the public and has neglected even the minimum duty, is subject to criticism and judgment not only from the firefighters' union but also from the public." He continued, "If President Yoon continues to defend and protect him, our National Assembly will also seek ways to hold the cabinet accountable, including Minister Lee, in accordance with the will of the people."

Earlier, Minister Lee was reported to have said in a text interview with JoongAng Ilbo on the 12th, "Who wouldn't want to resign stylishly?" which sparked controversy.