Politics Should Be a 'Clash of Values'
If You See 'Criticism of a Specific Individual,' You Are Already Being Manipulated by YouTube Power
Sangun Kwak (left), member of the Democratic Party of Korea, and YouTuber Eojun Kim. Sangun Kwak Facebook YouTube Eojun Kim's News Factory
Assemblyman Kwak Sangun of the Democratic Party of Korea responded to the recent controversy surrounding his post, stating that there was nothing in it that criticized any specific individual. He argued that if anyone interpreted it as criticism of a particular person, it means that YouTube power is already manipulating perceptions.
Many Supportive Messages, Many Malicious Comments... Who Is Being Criticized? Being Manipulated by YouTube Power
On September 9, Assemblyman Kwak stated on his social media, "I understand that many people have read my post. While I received a lot of supportive messages, I also saw a flood of criticism."
Kwak referred to recent reports that YouTube power is wielding political influence, citing a media article that said, "From September last year to August this year, there were only 65 Democratic Party lawmakers who had not appeared even once on News Factory." He revealed that he was one of those 65 lawmakers. He further pointed out, "If such YouTube channels are considered 'YouTube power brokers,' I have no intention of bowing my head to them in politics."
He went on to say that the current reality, where YouTube power exerts political influence, places politics in a fundamental crisis. Kwak stated, "So-called progressive circles are dominated by a few YouTube power brokers, and the same is true for conservative circles. YouTube power is intervening in and wielding influence over party politics. Currently, YouTube power is attempting to deify itself under the names of 'democracy,' 'progressive,' and 'conservative,' and is approaching 'religious authority.' Its positive functions have disappeared, and its negative impact is overwhelming."
Politics Should Be a 'Clash of Values'... Some Ride the Coattails of YouTube Power for Status
Kwak expressed that he views the phenomenon of YouTube power wielding political influence as a political problem.
He said, "I do not see any specific individual at the center of this phenomenon as the root cause, but if a particular person has instigated this situation or is taking political or economic advantage by riding the wave, then it is only natural that this individual faces political issues. This is because the realm of values has already shifted into the realm of personal character."
He also noted that some politicians, even if they do not actively agree, are riding the coattails of YouTube power for the sake of their positions. Kwak Sangun stated, "Many politicians, with no other choice, are either reluctantly joining in or simply standing by. I have also seen reports that a certain member of the National Assembly is telling a completely different story about me. I believe that person is simply trying to protect the political gains they have made so far, and that is why they are loyal to YouTube power. This does nothing to help the people," he added, expressing his regret.
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