Woo Won-sik: "No High Expectations for Yoon's Press Conference... Must Explain and Apologize for Livelihood Issues"

"Yoon Must Apologize to the People First"
"Behind-the-Scenes Controversy Due to Presidential Office's Lack of Competence"

Woo Won-sik, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, is making a procedural statement at the Environment and Labor Committee plenary meeting held at the National Assembly on the 16th. Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@

On the 9th (today), regarding President Yoon Seok-yeol's press conference, Woo Won-shik, a member of the People Power Party, stated, "I have no high expectations."

On the 9th, Woo said on KBS Radio's 'Jeon Jong-cheol's Jeonggyeok Sisa,' "It's fortunate that a press conference is being held, but recently, there was a hint of a veto regarding the special investigation on Corporal Chae," adding, "The press conference is probably being held because of public sentiment, but I am not sure if they truly understand the public mood." He also expressed little expectation for any political changes following the press conference.

He continued, "The public's anger over the Ichayangmyungju (Itaewon disaster, Corporal Chae's death case, Yangpyeong Expressway gate, allegations of Mrs. Kim's luxury bag receipt and stock manipulation) is significant," and said, "An apology should be made." He argued that issues related to people's livelihoods should also be addressed during the press conference. Woo raised his voice, saying, "They need to apologize, explain, and present measures to the public for irresponsibly dragging out livelihood issues symbolized by the controversy over the price of a bunch of green onions."

Regarding the unofficial advisor controversy, he pointed out it was due to the presidential office's lack of preparation and capability. Woo said, "They said they would listen to public sentiment for the general election by calling and meeting with Representative Lee Jae-myung, but such controversies arose," and added, "It was revealed that President Yoon usually communicated privately with external figures via the Telegram messenger. Since the unofficial advisor controversy was also brought about by the presidential office itself, it is a matter of lack of capability."

Meanwhile, Woo expressed confidence about the four-way race for the National Assembly Speaker election, saying, "I am the most favorable candidate." He said, "The Speaker of the National Assembly should reflect the public sentiment that formed the Assembly and effectively solve the difficult problems of the people," and added, "From the public's perspective, even if the ruling and opposition parties have different views, it is not difficult to distinguish right from wrong." Then, "If I become the Speaker who improves the lives of the people and protects their rights, I will be able to fulfill all the roles required in the Assembly," and "I don't think there is any need to worry much."