Suyoung Park Says "Busan Citizens Don't Need 250,000 Won," But Claims He "Desperately Needs Sponsorship Money" Himself

Political Attacks Continue Over Fundraising Campaign
Suyoung Park Reiterates: "Korea Development Bank Over 250,000 Won"

As the government’s livelihood recovery consumption coupons are set to be distributed starting July 21, Suyoung Park, a member of the People Power Party representing Nam-gu in Busan, has sparked growing public discontent by stating, "Busan citizens do not need 250,000 won." In the midst of this controversy, it was belatedly revealed that he had launched a fundraising campaign, further intensifying criticism.

Suyoung Park, member of the People Power Party. Suyoung Park Facebook

Previously, on July 3, Park announced on his social media that "half the year has already passed, but due to the complicated political situation with the 12·3 Martial Law, impeachment, and the presidential election, I have not been able to post about fundraising even once." He then disclosed his sponsorship account number and began soliciting donations. However, the very next day, on July 4, he posted on his social media, "Public enterprises relocated to Busan are said to be hiring more than 500 people this year. Since the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has already decided to relocate, please move it to 'Nam-gu' by the end of the year. Instead of the 250,000 won congratulatory money for my election, please also send the Korea Development Bank to 'Nam-gu' as soon as possible." He added, "Busan citizens do not need 250,000 won," thus inviting controversy.

In response, Jiho Kim, spokesperson for the Democratic Party of Korea, asked, "Is sponsorship money desperately needed for politicians, while livelihood support funds are a luxury for the people?" He went on to criticize, "For ordinary citizens and small business owners, even 250,000 won is a desperately needed lifeline." Byungjoo Kim, another Democratic Party lawmaker, also pointed out, "On what grounds does Park think he can refuse the rights of Busan citizens on their behalf?" Junho Han, a fellow People Power Party member, also criticized, "There should be a limit to deceiving Busan citizens." The Rebuilding Korea Party further added, referencing Park’s reported assets of 3.6 billion won, "Since he has over 2 billion won just in savings, it is no wonder that 250,000 won means nothing to him."

Netizens also criticized Park’s contradictory actions, with comments such as, "He says Busan citizens don’t need 250,000 won, yet he needs sponsorship money for himself," and "Where is your sense of shame?" One netizen, identifying as a Busan citizen, questioned, "Did he even ask Busan citizens if they need the support fund?" and added, "I need the support fund?will Suyoung Park provide it for me instead?" Despite these criticisms, on July 7, Park reiterated on social media that "the effect of local currency is only temporary," and insisted, "What Busan truly wants is the relocation of the Korea Development Bank, not 250,000 won in local currency," once again urging the government to expedite the relocation.