"It Is Important to Quickly Conclude the Impeachment Process Now"
Han Minsu, spokesperson for the Democratic Party of Korea, stated that he has heard many say "now is not the time" regarding remarks made by former Gyeongnam Governor Kim Kyungsoo targeting Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea.
On the 31st, Han said on CBS Radio's 'Kim Hyun-jung's News Show,' "Anyone in the Democratic Party can say such things," adding, "This is different from the People Power Party, which demands that lawmakers who supported the impeachment of President Yoon Seok-yeol leave."
On the 29th, former Gyeongnam Governor Kim Kyungsoo criticized Lee Jae-myung and the pro-Lee faction within the Democratic Party, pointing out insults and disparaging remarks made against former Presidents Roh Moo-hyun and Moon Jae-in during the last general election, and demanded apologies and reflection. In particular, he urged, "A political culture that listens to voices of criticism and opposition is the way to prove that we are different from them," and called for changing the party's political culture starting now to discard the painful labels of a one-party system and party privatization.
Han said that when meeting with local residents, party members, and supporters, he often heard comments such as "now is not the time" and "what were you doing when Yoon Seok-yeol's prosecutorial dictatorship was oppressing the opposition?" He emphasized, "It is important to quickly conclude the impeachment process now," and added, "We value not only former Governor Kim's opinions but all opinions."
Amid Lee's visit to former President Moon Jae-in on the 30th, Moon said, "To solve the immediate problems and even when major political changes occur later, a path of embracing and unifying will be the way to heal conflicts and reduce divisions." Han explained this by saying, "Former President Moon evaluated Lee's actions positively." He elaborated, "He emphasized embracing and unifying the entire nation to Lee, the most prominent presidential candidate who has played the central role in shaping the Democratic Party into a governing party."
Regarding the message Lee delivered ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, Han described it as a message of hope. Lee said, "South Korean democracy is passing through the most difficult but crucial stage before witnessing a new world," and urged, "Let's join forces to overcome the final hurdle." Han interpreted this as, "President Yoon Seok-yeol is attacking democracy and shaking the rule of law, making life difficult for the people," and explained, "Lee meant that we have reached the critical stage, like the final slope." He added, "It is a hopeful message that once President Yoon receives a proper trial, there will be a way to protect our democracy."
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