"Is the Lee administration trying to cover up negotiation failures by increasing the burden on companies?"
Jang Donghyuk, leader of the People Power Party, urged the government to enhance transparency regarding the Korea-U.S. tariff negotiations on the 17th, stating, "Neither backdoor deals nor wordplay will be tolerated."
At a press conference held at the National Assembly on this day, Jang said, "Tariff negotiations that are directly linked to the national economy and people's livelihoods must no longer proceed as opaque and unclear 'blind negotiations.' Do not heighten anxiety among the public and businesses with nontransparent negotiations. Even now, disclose the details transparently to the public and provide a thorough explanation."
Jang Donghyuk, leader of the People Power Party, is holding a press conference at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul on the 17th. Photo by Yonhap News
He also said, "There are reports that companies may increase their investment by 150 billion dollars. If the administration is irresponsibly trying to cover up negotiation failures by increasing the burden on companies, the people will not forgive it," he asserted.
He continued, "There have been reports that a plan is being discussed to divide the 350 billion dollar investment in the United States over 10 years, but there are no specific details. The public has no way of knowing how this phased investment will be carried out," he criticized.
He further pointed out, "Some say that foreign capital will be brought in to cover part of the investment. But whether it is through loans or guarantees, and who will ultimately be responsible, remains unclear."
Jang emphasized, "What the people want to hear from the government is not empty propaganda about how well things are going. They want a detailed explanation of what conditions and what funds will be mobilized, how the commitments will be fulfilled, and what kind of burden this will place on the public and businesses."
He added, "Since this is a matter that has a significant impact on the national economy, prior discussions with the National Assembly are only natural. This is the attitude of a government that is truly accountable to its people," he stressed.
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