Yang Hyangja: "Special Tribunal for Internal Affairs? Reminds Me of Nazi People's Court" [Current Affairs Show]

"Trump Will Closely Watch President Lee on Corporate Issues"
"Temporary Economic Stimulus? It's a Mayfly Economy"
"Jang Donghyuk Is a Leader Who Can Drive Bold Change for Conservatives"

■ Broadcast: "So Jongsup's Current Affairs Show" (Monday to Friday, 4:00 PM)

■ Host: Political Specialist So Jongsup ■ Director: PD Ma Yena

■ Guest: Yang Hyangja, Supreme Council Member of the People Power Party (September 12, 9:00 AM)

So Jongsup: Hello, everyone. This is So Jongsup's Current Affairs Show. Today, we have semiconductor expert Yang Hyangja, Supreme Council Member of the People Power Party, to discuss economic issues, her thoughts on the various changes within the People Power Party, and her diagnosis of the ruling bloc. Thank you for joining us despite your busy schedule, Council Member Yang.

Yang Hyangja: Thank you for inviting me.

So Jongsup: It has been about four months since you joined the People Power Party, correct?

Yang Hyangja: That's right. It's not quite five months yet. I am still humbly adjusting. It's my tenth year in politics now. I was elected twice as Supreme Council Member in the Democratic Party and also served as a member of the National Assembly. After being elected Supreme Council Member in the People Power Party just four months after joining, I feel as if I have only just dipped my little toe into the political arena. That's how difficult and inaccessible politics truly is.

Yang Hyangja, Supreme Council Member of the People Power Party, appeared on "So Jongsup's Current Affairs Show" held on the 12th at the Asia Economy studio in Jung-gu, Seoul. Photo by Heo Younghan

So Jongsup: I see. People often talk a lot about politics, but from your experience, it seems politics is not easy at all.

Yang Hyangja: It's the most difficult, the most daunting, and not something just anyone should do.

So Jongsup: Why do you feel that way?

Yang Hyangja: Former President Yoon Sukyeol seems to have left a significant mark on the history of leadership. All the problems that can arise when someone who is unprepared, untrained, and inexperienced in politics, with no experience in party politics, suddenly becomes president, are now surfacing. While this is a history we are now recording, I don't see it as entirely negative. Of course, there is suffering among the people, but we have learned a lot through this pain. Now, it will be difficult for such a president to emerge again, as the public has become aware of these issues.

Some of these problems may have been accumulated within the People Power Party itself. The disappearance of party politics, blind obedience, and lining up behind those in power have all contributed to the collapse of the party system and the loss of trust, even among those who wished to run under the party's banner. This accumulation of issues has brought us to this point. Now that a new leadership has been elected, I believe these problems will be resolved quickly.

Personal Anger Revealed in State Affairs at the 100-Day Presidential Press Conference

So Jongsup: President Lee Jaemyung held a press conference marking his first 100 days in office. What are your thoughts?

Yang Hyangja: Throughout the conference, he smiled and frequently mentioned practicality and unity. However, I saw many policy decisions and governance approaches rooted in President Lee's personal anger. For example, his insistence on suppressing the opposition regarding the internal affairs case, regardless of cooperation, seemed to stem from anger over attempts to purge him during martial law. This was not public anger, but personal anger, and it was clearly revealed during the 100-day press conference.

His claim that the Special Tribunal is not unconstitutional also appears to be rooted in anger toward the courts and the Supreme Court over his own trial. His policies on fake news seem to be motivated by personal and familial anger over the media's treatment of his son. Even his corporate disaster policies seem to stem from anger over his injuries as a child laborer. While he frames these in terms of narrative, it is actually his personal, latent anger that seems to drive all his policies. Politics should not be driven by personal anger. Politics is not a place to vent personal grievances. True political leadership requires sacrificing oneself to solve problems that anger the public, not using one's own anger as a justification for policy. If a leader acts out of personal anger, I would give them a failing grade.

Looking at the politics of Emergency Committee Chairman Cho Kuk, it also appears to be an outlet for personal anger rather than a sacrifice for public outrage. This 100-day press conference reaffirmed my commitment never to engage in politics driven by personal anger.

So Jongsup: What was the most impressive or disappointing part of the conference?

Yang Hyangja: The national debt is increasing significantly, yet he claimed the absolute amount is not important and talked about boosting the economy even if it means borrowing more. I believe such matters require careful consideration. He also frequently mentioned former President Yoon's internal affairs, reigniting past political strife, which I found disappointing. There are still no tangible achievements to show.

Yang Hyangja, Supreme Council Member of the People Power Party, criticized President Lee, saying, "The Special Tribunal for Internal Affairs is unconstitutional." Photo by Heo Younghan

The Perception That the Legislative Branch Can Control the Judiciary and Administration Is Extremely Dangerous

So Jongsup: What are your thoughts on the President's claim that the Special Tribunal for Internal Affairs is not unconstitutional?

Yang Hyangja: The Special Tribunal for Internal Affairs is, in fact, unconstitutional. President Lee's remarks place the legislative branch at the top. The idea that the legislative branch, as the elected authority to which the people transfer power, can control both the judiciary and the administration is extremely dangerous. A nation's democracy functions only when the powers of the legislative, judicial, and executive branches are balanced and separated. The notion that the judiciary is subordinate to the legislature, that lawmakers can do as they please and the judiciary must follow, and therefore the Special Tribunal is not unconstitutional, is deeply troubling.

Articles 101 and 103 of the Constitution clearly state otherwise. Such remarks are very dangerous. It makes me think that, if unchecked, the government could even declare martial law at will. It reminds me of the People's Court during Nazi Germany. Legislative tyranny is extremely dangerous.

So Jongsup: During the Supreme Council election, you appealed for support by asking people to "vote for the economy." How do you assess the current economic situation in Korea?

Yang Hyangja: The Korea Development Institute, a national research institute, recently projected growth in the 0% range, lowering its forecast to as low as 0.8%. This indicates a very difficult situation.

Companies feel like they are suffocating. Yet, extreme populist policies are being implemented. Where does the nation's financial resource come from? Mostly from businesses. However, companies feel suffocated and more and more entrepreneurs are giving up on running their businesses. This leads to the collapse of the entire ecosystem, not only for large corporations but also for medium-sized, small, venture, and startup companies, as well as sectors like culture, arts, food service, and sports. I have personally experienced the ups and downs of pro-business policies even within the Democratic Party. The current economic situation involves pouring money into temporary stimulus, but this only increases debt and burdens future generations with a tremendous weight. It is a "mayfly economy."

So Jongsup: The President emphasized growth.

Yang Hyangja: During the presidential campaign, he repeatedly said, "We are a centrist conservative party." But what happened after he became president? Anti-business bills have been passed one after another. This suggests unresolved internal identity conflicts that will not be easily resolved, and this will directly impact the lives of the people. I want to reiterate: while global circumstances are challenging, only when a conservative party is strong can the nation build and execute a proper system.

Uncertainty Over Economic Leadership and the Risk of Political Aides Overstepping at the Presidential Office

There is uncertainty over who is in charge of the economy, and it is dangerous to see political aides at the presidential office overstepping their roles. Approaching the economy with political logic rather than market logic creates confusion. Just because the previous administration focused on semiconductors, this administration has completely dropped the subject, even though semiconductors are Korea's only area of technological dominance. Now, they only talk about AI. AI is very important, but it is difficult for Korea to become a global power solely through AI. What matters is to carefully consider and implement policies that can truly save Korea. Because the leader's thinking is based on populist policies, the country will rapidly become vulnerable and face crises. The leader's background, tendencies, philosophy, and values do not align with strengthening the national system.

Commissioner Yang emphasized that the Semiconductor Special Act, excluding the 52-hour workweek exemption, lacks effective provisions. Photo by Huh Younghan

President Trump will be watching President Lee Jaemyung. Why? Because the United States needs Korea for two reasons. First, to contain the rising China, but the United States lacks a manufacturing cluster and thus lacks technological hegemony. Korea possesses this. The U.S. needs Korea as a technological ally to sanction China and as a means to create jobs through manufacturing clusters. These are all business sectors, particularly large corporations. Yet, anti-business policies continue. Will President Trump recognize President Lee? The U.S. will keep asking whether Korea is still necessary for them, and this administration, not even understanding the question, could lead the country to the brink of collapse.

So Jongsup: The Democratic Party has proposed passing the Semiconductor Special Act, excluding the 52-hour workweek exemption.

Yang Hyangja: If you remove the exemption for the 52-hour workweek, there is no need for a special act. What companies want is flexibility regarding the 52-hour workweek, but now we are going backward in an era of technological warfare. Submitting and passing the bill in the National Assembly in November is like a slap in the face. It shows they are still catering to labor unions. Proposing a bill without effective provisions and pushing it through the fast track is deeply disappointing.

This administration seems to treat semiconductors as merely a legacy of the former Yoon administration and is trying to erase it. It's not just because I come from a semiconductor background, but when the U.S. or China looks at Korea, do they see Naver or Kakao as global tech leaders? Are these companies capable of leading in core technologies? The only industry where Korea can have global leadership is the tertiary sector, especially those expanded from nanotechnology, such as semiconductors. President Trump is most concerned about and needs semiconductor factories. The same goes for battery factories. In the past, countries with oil could not be ignored, but now, countries that manufacture semiconductors cannot be ignored, as has been proven over the past 40 years.

So Jongsup: How do you evaluate Jang Donghyuk, the leader you have observed up close, and his current political stance?

Yang Hyangja: He is someone who can lead conservatives through bold change. Although it has been a short time, that's how I see Jang Donghyuk from the leadership's perspective.

So Jongsup: Why do you evaluate him this way?

Yang Hyangja: Jang Donghyuk's first message after being elected was that he won thanks to the power of new media. It wasn't the People Power Party but the power of new media. In reality, the 80-20 rule within the party played a significant role. He had no choice but to send messages that party members wanted. In a way, it was a well-devised strategy. After being elected, however, he must embrace even those who opposed him; otherwise, he would only represent the conservative YouTubers who helped him win.

He has become the leader of a traditional conservative party. If he doesn't change, that would be even stranger. The same goes for President Lee Jaemyung. President Lee, on the other hand, is going in the opposite direction. He claimed to be centrist-conservative, focusing on growth and business-friendly policies, but after becoming president, he keeps getting pulled toward the hardline supporters due to their influence.

So Jongsup: You have described Jang Donghyuk as a trustworthy and strategic figure, but some say he cannot be trusted because he changes his political stance too often.

Commissioner Yang expressed optimism, saying, "CEO Jang Donghyuk will head in the right direction." Photo by Huh Younghan

Yang Hyangja: Those who say that seem to be hoping for the downfall of the People Power Party. I believe that as long as he implements his values and philosophy strategically according to the situation, that's acceptable. Calling him an opportunist or a master of transformation is unfair. However, the public and party members will continue to watch what he does in the future. I believe he will head in the right direction.

So Jongsup: Some say the relationship between President Lee Jaemyung and Leader Jeong Cheongrae is staged, like a prearranged match. Others believe there is real friction because their policy directions and speeds differ.

Yang Hyangja: President Lee and Leader Jeong Cheongrae are still focused on their hardcore supporters. Those who see their relationship as staged are simply wishfully thinking. I believe they are actually at opposite ends. To avoid such a confrontation, the hardcore supporters overwhelmingly supported Leader Park Chandae. Because of this strong support, Leader Jeong Cheongrae will not be able to betray them in any way.

So Jongsup: There has been conflict between Leader Jeong Cheongrae and Floor Leader Kim Byungki.

Yang Hyangja: They are embodiments of private power, hiding their true intentions for now, but it will eventually come out. Leader Jeong Cheongrae is known for quickly changing his stance. What did he say? "If we keep fighting, only the People Power Party will benefit." Is that a solution? Shouldn't the debate be about what truly benefits the people? I found the language of the leaders to be truly disappointing, shallow, and vulgar.

Efforts to Hide Internal Conflict Will Eliminate Internal Debate Within the Ruling Bloc

So Jongsup: The relationship between Lee Jaemyung, Jeong Cheongrae, and Kim Byungki seems delicate. What do you foresee?

Yang Hyangja: The Democratic Party is making great efforts to keep internal conflicts from being seen publicly. The problem with this is that it eliminates internal debate. President Lee is conscious of public opinion, Leader Jeong Cheongrae is conscious of his hardcore supporters, and Floor Leader Kim Byungki is conscious of his role. If a fight breaks out, the media will love it, but because they will go to great lengths to keep it internal, there will be no real debate. As a result, the party will lose its way, and the public will judge them harshly in the next general election. The reason I say this is because I genuinely want the Democratic Party to do well.

Commissioner Yang emphasized, "After severing ties with former President Yoon, the People Power Party must regain its identity, values, philosophy, goals, and competence to stand properly." Photo by Heo Younghan

The People Power Party's weakness has been that, after elevating a leader with no political experience to the presidency, he ignored the party. You can see this in his remarks like, "I told them to do it, but there's too much talk in the party." It was as if the party was unnecessary and his word was law. As a result, no one could criticize or properly speak up, and blind obedience became the norm. Anyone who spoke out was immediately ousted, and this cycle repeated until the party collapsed, not just because of the leader but also those around him. For the party to stand properly, it must sever those ties and reclaim its identity, values, philosophy, goals, and competence. I will also strive to take greater responsibility with greater humility.

New Parties by Lee Junseok, Oh Sehoon, and Ahn Cheolsoo Are Unlikely; The People Power Party Must Focus on Strengthening Itself

So Jongsup: Do you think the Reform New Party and the People Power Party should unite before the local elections?

Yang Hyangja: I believe we must first focus on strengthening ourselves. Only when the People Power Party is recognized as a competent and central force in national governance as a traditional conservative party can it work with other groups. Otherwise, many minor parties will simply hope for our downfall. Right now, the priority is to rebuild the People Power Party.

If the People Power Party demonstrates its capabilities as a conservative party, even those like Lee Junseok who are currently outside the party would want to join. I want to say that the door is open, but whether to come in or not is their choice. I have always opposed artificial alliances that pursue only profit without principles or responsibility.

Having seen too many parties disappear into history after forming alliances without principles, I can say that such actions are poisonous. Among conservatives, responsibility for division is always assigned. "Who is responsible for the split?" That is why it is difficult for former Leader Yoo Seungmin. The question is always whether Lee Junseok or the People Power Party is to blame for the division. For now, the blame is placed on Lee Junseok. If Assemblyman Ahn Cheolsoo leaves, he will also be blamed for causing division. Conservatives always hold someone accountable for division.

So Jongsup: Some say that Ahn Cheolsoo, Oh Sehoon, and Lee Junseok should unite to form a new party.

Yang Hyangja: I don't consider everyone who protested against impeachment on the streets to be far-right. Our party's official stance is that martial law was illegal, unlawful, and unconstitutional, and we have taken responsibility for it. The declaration of martial law was a political misjudgment by the president, which led to the Constitutional Court's decision to remove him from office, and we accepted that decision, resulting in an early presidential election. If we now deny martial law or the Constitutional Court's ruling, it would mean Korea is no longer a democracy or a true political party.

Such actions would only further isolate our party. Within the party, there were both supporters and opponents of impeachment. Some people, based on their own perspectives, questioned whether impeachment was necessary, saying, "No one even died." That is why there were supporters who opposed impeachment. While differing opinions on impeachment are possible, the impeachment process is now in the past. Bringing it up again and asking who supported or opposed it will not lead to any conclusion. As a party leader, visiting a former president who is in prison after being removed from office is a sad and anger-inducing situation, and I am representing the public's view that it is inappropriate.

The emergence of a new party by Lee Junseok, Ahn Cheolsoo, and Oh Sehoon would only represent another form of division. Now is the time to focus on innovating the People Power Party as a traditional conservative party and making it a competent and strong party. Unless there is constitutional reform to introduce a multi-member district system, it is impossible. Under the current system, it is difficult for any party other than a major one to survive.

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So Jongsup: How do you predict next year's local elections will go? If the election were held now?

Yang Hyangja: It would be difficult in terms of votes. We could lose almost everything.

So Jongsup: Do you think the Yeongnam region will also be tough?

Yang Hyangja: It will not be easy. Even Daegu will not be easy. There is a strong wave of criticism against the People Power Party in Daegu as well.

So Jongsup: One of President Lee's classmates from the Judicial Research and Training Institute has been nominated as Ambassador to the United Nations.

President Lee's Appointment of Former Classmates Mirrors Former President Yoon's Favoritism Toward Prosecutors

Yang Hyangja: I saw that he is from the 18th class of the Judicial Research and Training Institute. Justice Minister Jeong Sungho, Legislation Minister Jo Woncheol, Financial Supervisory Service Governor Lee Chanjin-there seem to be about seven in total. This trend will intensify. The desire to appoint people from his own network will only grow. He will also feel obliged to reward the lawyers who helped him with legal issues and will want to appoint people he trusts. This is exactly like former President Yoon Sukyeol, who consistently appointed people from Seoul National University Law School and the prosecution.

The intensification of this trend means the president wants to surround himself with trusted people. Presidents feel insecure because checks on their power are inevitable, so they end up relying on their own networks. This is now becoming visible.

One of Korea's biggest problems today is the excessive politicization of legal professionals. Conservative parties are dominated by prosecutors, while progressive parties are dominated by lawyers-it's all about the law. As a result, even issues that could be resolved ethically or politically are taken to court. This leads to high costs, making people's lives more difficult. I believe the collapse of the Yoon administration was also due to handling issues as legal matters. For example, after the Itaewon disaster, which was heartbreaking for the parents, what did Minister Lee Sangmin do? He did not take ethical or political responsibility, claiming there were no legal issues. But from the public's perspective, that is not true responsibility.

When everything is handled strictly by the law, society becomes high-cost and low-efficiency, conflict intensifies, distrust grows, and astronomical costs are incurred, leaving less budget for future generations. The vicious cycle cannot be broken. Now, those with backgrounds in science, technology, industry, the economy, and business must make up a significant portion of political leaders.

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