Jang Ye-chan "Moon Pyeongsan Bookstore? There Might Be Political Intent"

"Former Presidents Have an Obligation to Contribute to Social Integration"
"Claims of Pro-Moon Jae-in Faction's Strategy for General Election Nominations"

Jang Ye-chan, the youngest supreme council member of the People Power Party, claimed that former President Moon Jae-in's bookstore 'Pyeongsan Bookstore,' built near his private residence in Yangsan, Gyeongnam at his own expense, "likely has political intentions."

On the 25th, Jang appeared on KBC's 'Yeouido Invitation' and said, "(Former President Moon) is the most actively engaged in political and social activities among all former presidents," adding, "It seems 100% certain that his statement about 'wanting to be forgotten' is not sincere."

Jang stated, "Former presidents have an obligation as national elders to contribute to social integration and national unity. For example, if conservative book authors are invited and discussions are held, it could contribute to national unity," but he disparaged, "However, I expect that at Pyeongsan Bookstore, broadcaster Kim Je-dong will give lectures or former Minister of Justice Cho Kuk will hold book concerts."

He further said about Pyeongsan Bookstore, "It only serves as a stronghold where ideological factionalism is reinforced," and questioned, "I wonder if this can truly contribute to national unity."

On the 25th, a signboard reading 'Pyeongsan Bookstore' was attached to former President Moon Jae-in's bookstore in Pyeongsan Village, Habuk-myeon, Yangsan-si, Gyeongnam. [Image source=Yonhap News]

Jang claimed that the opening of former President Moon's bookstore is a political maneuver aimed at next year's general election. He said, "Since Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, currently has weak leadership, there are speculations that 'pro-Lee Jae-myung nominations' cannot be freely made ahead of the next general election," adding, "In this context, former President Moon is demonstrating his continued influence as a political strategy to save as many pro-Moon (pro-Moon Jae-in) members within the Democratic Party as possible."

He continued, "If that happens, this issue will escalate from a social (participation) matter to a real political problem, so I hope such concerns do not become reality."

Jang also said, "I would have criticized in the same way if former Presidents Park Geun-hye or Lee Myung-bak had opened bookstores and gathered their fandoms."

The Pyeongsan Bookstore operated by former President Moon is holding a private plaque unveiling ceremony this afternoon. Without a separate commemorative event, it is expected that local residents will be invited to enjoy refreshments and celebrate the bookstore's opening.