Kim Myungsook, Yoo Youngchae, and Lee Byungha Among Five Lawmakers
Say They Are "Deeply Reflecting"
On May 23, three out of five lawmakers from the Cheonan City Council in South Chungcheong Province who had their parking violation fines waived over the past three years issued an apology.
Kim Myungsook, Yoo Youngchae, and Lee Byungha, all members of the Democratic Party of Korea, held a press conference in the city hall briefing room that day and stated, "We sincerely apologize for causing great disappointment and concern to the citizens."
They explained, "While our intention was to quickly resolve citizens' inconveniences during field visits for civil complaints, even if the system allowed for such exemptions, if it was unfair, we should have taken the lead in correcting it."
They continued, "Even if there was a public purpose, procedures and principles should have been observed without exception. We deeply regret our carelessness," and added, "We believe the disappointment and hurt felt by the citizens who trusted and supported us will be even greater."
They went on to pledge to: ▲ voluntarily pay the full amount of the fines ▲ disclose the circumstances ▲ refuse any special privileges ▲ and prevent recurrence.
The lawmakers said, "As public officials representing the citizens, we will adopt a more humble attitude and apply stricter standards to ourselves in order to regain the lost trust," adding, "Once again, we deeply apologize to the citizens."
Meanwhile, the city recently waived a total of 13 parking violation fines for city council members over the past three years. Of the lawmakers who apologized that day, as well as Lee Sanggu of the People Power Party, each had one fine waived, while independent lawmaker Lee Jongdam had a total of nine fines waived.
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