Cheon Haram on Ham Ikbyung's 'room salon remarks': "Not the Reform New Party's opinion... apology needed"

Lee Junseok Blocks Incoming Calls: "I Can't Stand the Hassle"
"Ham Ikbyung's Room Salon Remarks Were Inappropriate, Apology Needed"

Cheon Haram, co-chairman of the Reform New Party's joint election campaign committee, appeared on AK Radio at the Asia Economy headquarters on the 28th of last month, interviewing with specialist So Jongsup. Photo by Huh Younghan

Cheon Haram, standing co-chairman of the Reform New Party's election campaign committee, stated regarding committee member Ham Ikbyung's remarks about room salons, "I want to make it clear that this does not represent the opinion of the Reform New Party."

On the 22nd, Cheon appeared on the Korea Ilbo's Issue Jeonpasa program and said, "I do not agree with the statement that everyone over 50 has been to a room salon in relation to Judge Ji Guyoun, and I want to clarify that this is an opinion based on a limited personal experience."

He went on to add, "The election committee is also making it clear that this is by no means the official position of the Reform New Party," and said, "It seems that these remarks stemmed from a combination of personal experience and the belief that, in a situation where there is considerable pressure on the judiciary, it is inappropriate to hastily apply further pressure on judges."

When asked whether he believes Ham should issue an apology, Cheon replied, "Although I have not yet spoken with him, we will ensure that appropriate action is taken, and I do believe an apology is necessary."

Meanwhile, Cheon also addressed the recent 'unification love call' directed at Lee Junseok, the Reform New Party's presidential candidate. This comes as Lee's Facebook post stating 'I will block all calls until the presidential election' has drawn attention.

Cheon said, "During the last general election, there were also many proposals for Lee Junseok to unify candidacies," and added, "I personally received many such requests as well, and Lee Junseok's response?saying he can't stand the hassle and won't take calls?seems to be similar this time as well."