"Strange That Photos Were Naturally Released to the Media"
"Celebrity Marketing... Resign and Then Do It"
The Democratic Party of Korea raised suspicions that the recent meeting and meal between Minister of Justice Han Dong-hoon and actor Lee Jung-jae, who are high school alumni, might have been planned rather than coincidental.
Han Min-soo, spokesperson for the Democratic Party, said on YTN's 'News & Issue' on the 27th, "Minister Han is known to get defensive when such topics come up, so he might attack me for saying this, but I don't think it was a coincidence," adding, "Recently, photos of Minister Han's wife volunteering were widely released in the media, and even within the People Power Party, there were talks that this might have been orchestrated.
He continued, "They are said to be alumni of the 5th class of Hyundai High School, so surely they must have agreed to have a meal together at a restaurant," but pointed out, "However, the fact that it was released to the media so naturally is somewhat strange."
Minister of Justice Han Dong-hoon is arriving at the Government Complex Gwacheon in Gyeonggi Province on the afternoon of the 23rd. [Image source=Yonhap News]
Han also stated, "Minister Han harshly criticizes the Democratic Party and its leader every time he visits the region. Not everyone likes that. This is what I heard from a People Power Party branch chair," and added, "There is criticism questioning whether he can effectively lead the metropolitan area with such behavior."
He then speculated, "(Criticism related to Minister Han) must have reached those around him who handle political planning," and "So it seems they deliberately publicized the meal with the famous actor Lee Jung-jae, whom I also like."
The Democratic Party also criticized Minister Han for violating political neutrality obligations and openly engaging in election activities. Seo Yong-joo, full-time deputy spokesperson for the Democratic Party, appeared on MBN's 'Pressroom Live' and said, "The current Minister of Justice holds a serious position," adding, "He should conduct legal administration and strive to maintain neutrality in his conduct, but he picks fights with the Democratic Party at every turn. Since he is still the Minister of Justice, I advise him to behave properly."
Regarding the news of Minister Han meeting with Lee Jung-jae, Deputy Spokesperson Seo said, "Although they are alumni of Hyundai High School, isn't this celebrity marketing?" and criticized, "Would the Minister of Justice leisurely post photos with celebrity friends on social media? That is something to do after resigning from the ministerial position."
He added, "I don't know if he has gotten carried away with the atmosphere while touring the region recently, but preparing for the general election while wearing the Minister of Justice's uniform is inappropriate. My advice is to submit your resignation quickly."
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