People Power Party Criticizes President Lee's Press Conference as Embarrassing Self-Praise

"Stop Political Shows and Govern with Humility"

On July 3, the People Power Party harshly criticized President Lee Jaemyung's press conference marking his 30th day in office, calling it "the fastest self-praise among all presidents in history."

Song Eonseok, acting leader and floor leader of the People Power Party, said during his opening remarks at the party's general assembly at the National Assembly, "President Lee's press conference was filled only with self-praise about the past 30 days."

He especially raised his voice regarding the issue of Prime Minister nominee Kim Minseok, whose confirmation vote is imminent. Song said, "Today, a plenary session will be held to confirm the Prime Minister, and there has never been a nominee with as many problems as Kim Minseok. Yet, there has not been a single apology, and it is clear how little respect is shown for the public."

Yonhap News Agency

He continued, "Eight years ago, when criticism grew over the confirmation of then-Prime Minister nominee Lee Nakyon, former President Moon Jaein humbly asked the opposition for cooperation. However, the current ruling party is busy defending Kim Minseok, and President Lee Jaemyung does not seem to have any intention of seeking understanding."

The People Power Party once again called for the withdrawal of Kim Minseok's nomination. Song said, "The president tells ministers to respect the National Assembly, but the Prime Minister disregards it. Appointing such a Prime Minister is nothing but turning a blind eye. From the public's perspective, the administration appears arrogant."

Park Sunghoon, the party's floor spokesperson, also commented on President Lee's press conference, describing it as "a feast of lies filled with self-justification and sophistry."

Regarding the livelihood recovery support fund mentioned by President Lee, Park said, "The support fund, based on the so-called 'hotel economy theory,' will clearly become a debt for current and future generations rather than a priming water for the economy. Yet, the administration only reveals its obsession with handouts, deceiving the youth and the public."

Park also responded sharply to President Lee's remark about "respecting the opposition and communicating frequently." He said, "The Democratic Party monopolized the chairs of the Legislation and Budget Committees and pushed through Kim Minseok's confirmation, thereby abandoning cooperation. President Lee's double standards are dizzying."

Regarding President Lee's comment that the current political structure of a ruling majority and opposition minority is "the choice of the people," Park said, "It is sophistry to claim that those who did not choose the Democratic Party are not the people. This is merely an expression of political arrogance aimed at justifying a monopoly on power."

Park added, "Since President Lee took office, only the stock market has surged like a bubble, while people's livelihoods remain difficult. It is time to stop political shows that ignore reality and, instead of lecturing the public, take a more humble attitude and pursue responsible governance."