Lee Junseok, the presidential candidate of the Reform New Party, pointed out on the 18th, right after the first TV debate of the 21st presidential election, "At this critical time of economic crisis, I believe candidate Lee Jaemyung is not well prepared on the details."
Speaking to reporters after the presidential candidates' economic debate hosted by the National Election Broadcasting Debate Commission at the SBS studio in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul that evening, Lee said, "It is impossible to have a real debate with Lee Jaemyung," making this criticism.
He specifically mentioned Lee Jaemyung's pledge to invest 100 trillion won in the AI industry, stating, "If you claim to spend such a large budget, you need to logically explain where and how it will be used, but instead, he gave ambiguous answers and responded emotionally."
Lee continued, "Whenever a slightly difficult question or rebuttal comes up during the debate, he immediately calls it 'extreme' and tries to mock his opponent. Yet, the person who makes the most extreme pledges is Lee Jaemyung himself," he said pointedly.
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He added, "When I ask a question, he responds by asking 'Why is that extreme?', which makes it hard to understand his strategy. Perhaps, intoxicated by the post-martial law atmosphere, he seemed to speak about Korea's vision carelessly. I find this concerning."
Lee also raised an issue with Lee Jaemyung's past remark about the '120 won coffee cost.' Lee said, "Many citizens today must have hoped that Lee Jaemyung would properly clarify his stance on economic issues. However, regarding his statements on hotel economics and coffee cost, he continued to make sophistic arguments without any responsible explanation." He added, "He should have clearly acknowledged that his incorrect remarks hurt small business owners."
Lee also criticized Lee Jaemyung's manner of conducting himself during the debate. He said, "When the SBS reporter asked something he didn't like, he immediately interrupted and responded rudely on the spot. We are asking questions as party representatives about matters the public is curious about, and such an attitude is problematic." He further commented, "Although the catchphrase was coined by Lee Jaemyung, an impolite situation occurred."
Lee also expressed skepticism about Lee Jaemyung's external leadership. He said, "While telling others not to make extreme remarks, he kept being uncooperative, evaded answers, and ultimately gave responses that were close to sophistry. With such an attitude, can he really negotiate internationally with a leader like Trump?"
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