The Politics of Harsh Words... 'Itaewon Mockery,' Stigma or Badge of Honor?

Apology for Defamation Controversy by Kim Mina, Changwon City Council Member from People Power Party
Public Backlash Brief, Followed by Nationwide Recognition and Strong Supporter Fandom
Former Chungbuk Provincial Councilor Involved in Lemming Controversy Announces Candidacy After Reinstatement

[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Jeong-min] "A scheme to make a profit by selling one's children..." Kim Mina, a member of the Changwon City Council affiliated with the People Power Party, who made offensive remarks to the bereaved families who lost their lives in the Itaewon tragedy, has officially apologized.

On the 13th, at the Changwon City Council plenary session, she said, "I bow my head and apologize to the citizens, especially the bereaved families, who have been deeply hurt by my wrongful words. I will deeply reflect on this." The People Power Party's Gyeongnam Provincial Party Committee plans to refer Councilor Kim to the Ethics Committee for disciplinary action.

The bereaved families who lost their loved ones in the Itaewon tragedy were deeply hurt by Councilor Kim's remarks. Losing a life is already unfair, and the feeling that society is mocking them only deepens their frustration. Some may sympathize with Councilor Kim's remarks, and such opinions can feel like a dagger to the bereaved families.

This is why the controversy over Councilor Kim Mina's offensive remarks cannot be resolved simply by an apology or disciplinary action.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Offensive Politicians, Unexpected Benefits

The noteworthy point is the 'politics of offensive remarks.' Politicians who cause social controversies with offensive remarks seem to suffer disadvantages proportional to the criticism they receive, but political reality is different. Councilor Kim, who was appointed as a proportional representative in the Changwon City Council election, is a former president of the Green Mothers' Union at Masan Eastern Police Station.

Considering Councilor Kim's political background, she is an unknown figure whose name is not even known on the central political stage. The public does not know which district or city council members work in the numerous local governments nationwide. Perhaps it is natural not to know. If people do not know the name of the local district's National Assembly member, how could they know the names of district or city council members?

Councilor Kim has gained recognition, an invaluable asset for politicians, especially nationwide recognition. This controversy was reported by major broadcasts and newspapers, and her name became known nationwide. Even those who do not know the current National Assembly member of Changwon have come to know Councilor Kim Mina's name.

There is a saying that politicians are so thirsty for recognition that appearing in the media is always good except for obituaries. Those with high recognition inevitably gain an advantage in elections. The equation 'public opinion poll = recognition' is sometimes formed. Councilor Kim has gained high recognition, unlike other local politicians, through successive controversies over offensive remarks.

Moreover, she can also gain the fandom of the People Power Party's hardline supporters. While it may be difficult to speak openly due to others' eyes, some inwardly think Councilor Kim spoke well. To them, her statements are not offensive remarks but refreshing truths. This is why offensive politicians receive support from the hardline supporters of their parties.

Controversy over 'Lemming' Remarks by Chungbuk Councilor: Disciplinary Action but Reinstatement and Candidacy Declaration

Even if disciplinary action is taken, it is hard to say that a political future ends there.

Former Chungbuk Councilor Kim Hak-cheol faced public backlash in the summer of 2017 for going on a European study tour during flood damage in Chungbuk. Controversy erupted when he was accused of comparing the public to lemmings (field mice) during a media interview, sparking fierce criticism.

Eventually, former Councilor Kim was expelled. It seemed his political career was over. However, he was reinstated in December last year. In April this year, he announced his candidacy for the Chungbuk Council election as a member of the People Power Party. Although former Councilor Kim was criticized for his lemming remarks, he gained nationwide recognition. Some hardline supporters also defended his statements.

For politicians, controversies over offensive remarks do not necessarily lead to losses. The more statements are made with hardline supporters in mind, the more politics loses balance and becomes chaotic. Politicians who should be ousted gain a stronger political base. Those lacking a public-minded spirit should lose their place in politics, but a distorted political culture where troublemakers are rewarded may become entrenched.