Independent Candidate Debated with Hwang Kyoan... Spotlight on '17 Criminal Convictions' Record

Non-Invited Presidential Candidate Debate Held on the 19th
Video of Candidate Song Jinho, with 17 Criminal Convictions, Draws Attention

As the presidential candidate TV debate for non-invited candidates, hosted by the National Election Broadcasting Debate Commission, was held on the 19th, attention has turned to the profiles of the independent candidates running for president. The most widely recognized figure is candidate Hwang Kyoan. There has been ongoing debate among netizens regarding another independent candidate who participated in the debate alongside Hwang. This is because the candidate in question has 17 prior convictions.

The presidential candidate TV debate hosted by the National Election Broadcasting Debate Commission took place on the 19th, drawing attention to the profiles of the candidates. The most widely known figure is candidate Hwang Kyoan. Candidate Hwang is running as an independent in this presidential election. There has been ongoing debate among netizens regarding another independent candidate who participated in the debate alongside Hwang. This candidate has 17 prior convictions. Photo by Yonhap News

On the 20th, a video titled "Presidential Candidate Debate: Song Jin-ho with 17 Criminal Convictions, 30-Second Summary" was uploaded to YouTube. The video features highlights of candidate Song's remarks from the non-invited candidate TV debate hosted by the National Election Broadcasting Debate Commission on the 19th. During the debate, Song stated, "Now, Chinese compatriots are citizens of Korea who live together with us. It is not right to discriminate or hold prejudices. Opposing support for overseas Koreans is impossible." He went on to emphasize, "We need a president who takes action on the economy. I will definitely revive the economy. As the 21st president, I will establish a National Reconstruction Committee and an Economic Recovery Committee to ensure the revitalization of the people's livelihoods and the economy."

This year, 57-year-old candidate Song has a record of 17 criminal convictions. According to the National Election Commission, Song's convictions include fraud, property damage, and violent acts. There is ongoing controversy among netizens regarding Song's eligibility to run for president. YouTube channel 'MBC News'

This year, 57-year-old candidate Song has a record of 17 criminal convictions. According to the National Election Commission, Song's convictions include fraud, property damage, and violent acts. There is ongoing controversy among netizens regarding Song's eligibility to run for president. Comments have included, "It's not just any convictions, they're all for fraud," "It doesn't make sense for someone with 17 convictions to be in politics," "Convicted criminals should be banned from running for office," and "A presidential debate between a criminal like this and a former prime minister just doesn't seem right." As of 8 a.m. on the 22nd, the video had reached 230,000 views.

Meanwhile, a presidential candidate debate on social issues is scheduled for the 23rd, and another on political issues will be held on the 27th. The debates will be attended by Lee Jaemyung, the Democratic Party candidate; Kim Moonsu, the People Power Party candidate; Lee Joonseok, the Reform New Party candidate; and Kwon Youngguk, the Democratic Labor Party candidate.