Announced her new career as a carpenter earlier this year... Shares life update on TV
"I don't want to keep changing careers anymore"
Former Justice Party lawmaker Ryu Hojung, who drew attention as the youngest member of the 21st National Assembly before transitioning to a career as a carpenter, has shared an update on her life.
On September 10, Ryu appeared on KBS 2TV's 'Saengsaeng Information,' where she revealed her life as a novice carpenter.
Ryu is currently working at a custom furniture manufacturing and interior design company in Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province. She personally cuts and processes solid wood, participating in the production of high-end furniture and interior installations.
On the broadcast, Ryu said, "When making policy, the results weren't immediately visible, but in woodworking, the outcome is apparent as soon as you cut the wood, which is the appeal. I feel a great sense of accomplishment when the finished furniture is delivered from my hands to the customer."
Earlier this year, Ryu announced her transformation into a carpenter through social media. She explained, "At the company, I am the youngest both in terms of experience and age, so I have a lot to learn and even study after work. At first, some people found it odd that a former lawmaker became a carpenter, but now I get along comfortably with my colleagues."
She added that her parents, unlike when she was in politics, did not strongly oppose her new path and only advised her, "Just be careful not to get hurt."
After graduating from Ewha Womans University with a degree in sociology, Ryu began her career at a gaming company, where she led the establishment of a labor union and started her labor activism. She joined the Justice Party in 2017 and entered the National Assembly in 2020 as the top-ranked proportional representative, becoming the youngest lawmaker at the time.
Although she later left the Justice Party, participated in the founding of a new party, and joined the Reform New Party, she effectively withdrew from politics after deciding not to register as a candidate for the 22nd general election.
Ryu drew a clear line regarding the possibility of returning to politics. She stated, "I don't want to keep changing careers anymore. Politics isn't something that can only be done through holding party or public office. As a citizen, I can still think about and contribute to good politics." She added that she continues to engage with and express interest in social issues through social media.
Additionally, Ryu shared her future plans on the broadcast, saying, "I will continue to work hard and grow until the day I become a senior carpenter," expressing her aspirations.
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