Lee Junseok Criticizes Disrespect Toward Hong Junpyo's Decision
Condemns Culture of Perpetrators Verbally Abusing Victims
Lee Junseok, the presidential candidate of the Reform New Party, on the 14th criticized Kwon Youngse, former acting leader of the People Power Party, for his remarks about the character of former Daegu Mayor Hong Joonpyo.
After completing his schedule at Beomeosa Temple in Busan on this day, Lee met with reporters and addressed Kwon's criticism of Hong, saying, "Rather than talking about character, he should reflect on whether he is engaging in proper politics."
Lee Junseok, the presidential candidate of the Reform New Party, is eating food given by a citizen while appealing for support during his visit to Jagalchi Market in Busan on the 14th. Photo by Yonhap News
Previously, Kwon had criticized Hong by raising issues about his character. Recently, through a communication channel with his supporters, Hong commented, "Because they are desperate, this despicable group is asking me to return, but I am so fed up that I don't even want to go near them." In response, Kwon wrote on social media, "Someone who has twice run for president in this party, been elected twice as a metropolitan mayor, and won multiple terms as a National Assembly member should not be acting this way now. I suppose innate character cannot be helped."
Regarding this, Lee stated, "One of the worst cultures within the People Power Party is that perpetrators verbally abuse victims," and added, "Since Hong has chosen to retire from politics on his own, and considering he has been with the party for 30 years, it is only right to respect his decision. Criticizing him at this point is completely unjustified."
He continued, "What many people saw in this (People Power Party presidential) primary was that the environment created by former President Yoon Sukyeol and the so-called 'Yoon loyalists' made it difficult to make rational choices, and this is the cause of Hong's disappointment."
Lee also pointed out that the People Power Party failed to properly show respect to Hong. Referring to the fact that party officials did not see Hong off as he left for the United States, Lee said, "Instead, I was the one in Daegu who adjusted my schedule to see him off. How do you think this looks to the public?"
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