Kim Ki-hyun: "Xing Haiming's Interference in Internal Affairs... A Serious Diplomatic Insult"

"Democratic Party Raises Suspicions of Being China's Puppet"

Kim Ki-hyun, leader of the People Power Party, expressed "strong regret" on the 9th regarding the dinner meeting between Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, and Xing Haiming, the Chinese Ambassador to Korea.

Kim attended the party's plenary committee meeting held at the National Assembly that morning and pointed out that the two, Lee and Ambassador Xing, "appeared to be jointly criticizing our Republic of Korea government."

He continued, criticizing Ambassador Xing by saying, "His remarks seemed to shift the responsibility for the deterioration of Korea-China relations onto our Republic of Korea, and he did not hesitate to make blatant criticisms such as 'You will surely regret this.' This is a clear interference in internal affairs and a serious diplomatic discourtesy."

Kim Ki-hyun, leader of the People Power Party, is speaking at the 7th National Committee meeting held at the National Assembly on the 9th. Photo by Kim Hyun-min kimhyun81@

Kim targeted Lee, saying, "Lee took out the script prepared by Ambassador Xing and, as if determined, criticized our Republic of Korea government in perfect sync with him, acting as a backup dancer. Instead of stopping or protesting the rude remarks, he obediently listened for 15 minutes as if following orders," condemning him.

Kim then referred to how the Democratic Party handled Ambassador Xing's residence invitation, stating, "This scene raises doubts about whether the Democratic Party is a party that protects the national interest of the Republic of Korea or a puppet of China." He added, "Usually, invitations to the ambassador's residence are private, but the Democratic Party not only made it public but even live-streamed it through the party's official YouTube channel. Moreover, Democratic Party aides were seen taking notes on Ambassador Xing's excessively arrogant remarks."

Kim said, "It feels like a replay of the submissive diplomacy toward China during the Moon Jae-in administration, which is truly heavy and regrettable. The Democratic Party and Lee Jae-myung should sincerely apologize to the people," urging them to do so.