"Every Time He Opens His Mouth" and "Sister-in-Law Profanity"... Democratic Party and People Power Party Escalate Negative Campaigning

Concerns Rise Over Policy-Focused Election Being Overshadowed
by Intensifying Political Confrontation

As the 21st presidential election approaches, the negative campaigning between the Democratic Party of Korea and the People Power Party is intensifying.

Kim Hyun, Chair of the National Communication Committee of the Democratic Party's Central Election Committee, targeted candidate Kim Moonsoo during the party's official YouTube broadcast, "Kim Moonsoo People Power Party Presidential Candidate Kim Moonsoo's Outright Lies Series Collection," on the afternoon of May 13. Kim Hyun mentioned violations of the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act during the COVID-19 period. The Democratic Party also continued to launch harsh criticisms against candidate Kim Moonsoo, stating, "Every time he opens his mouth, a lie comes out," among other direct attacks.

On the 15th, officials from the Seoul Metropolitan Election Commission are posting election posters of candidates for the 21st presidential election on a wall near the Artist's House in Jongno-gu, Seoul. 2025.05.15 Photo by Yoon Dongjoo

On May 11, the Democratic Party's Rapid Response Team of the election committee released the "Kim Moonsoo Controversial Remarks Collection." Democratic Party lawmakers Kang Deukgu and Jung Junho, among others, highlighted Kim Moonsoo's public lecture statements, drawing attention to controversies such as his remarks disparaging women. In response, the People Power Party launched a direct attack on Lee Jaemyung, the Democratic Party's presidential candidate. Cho Yongsul, spokesperson for the People Power Party's election committee, said, "How will you explain Lee Jaemyung's past and his outrageous remarks?" and brought up the so-called "sister-in-law profanity" controversy.

Previously, on March 21, the People Power Party published the "Lee Jaemyung Outrageous Remarks Collection." The book contains controversial statements made by candidate Lee regarding China and certain internet communities, among other issues.