Jeong Cheongrae Apologizes for 'Nomination Fund Allegations'..."Appropriate Disciplinary Action Will Be Taken"

Five Days After Release of Recording on Kang Sunwoo’s 100 Million Won Allegation

Jeong Cheongrae, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, has issued an apology regarding the recent allegations of nomination fund misconduct involving Assemblywoman Kang Sunwoo.

On January 3, through Facebook, Jeong stated, "As the leader of the Democratic Party, I apologize for causing great disappointment, hurt, and anger to the public and our party members," adding, "We will excise the infected area and turn this incident into an opportunity for positive change." This marks the party leader's first apology, coming five days after the release of a recording on December 29 alleging that Assemblywoman Kang received 100 million won.

Jeong Cheongrae, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is speaking at the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly on the 2nd. Photo by Kim Hyunmin

Jeong described the incident as "truly shameful," and said, "While it is said that one fixes the barn after losing the cow, we will now build the barn thicker and higher, and thoroughly seal any holes where coal gas could seep in, to ensure this never happens again."

He continued, "We have taken action against those involved in the incident with a zero-tolerance policy, and will continue to impose appropriate disciplinary measures as the party deems necessary. I also urge the police to conduct a swift and thorough investigation, leaving no suspicion unaddressed."

Jeong also expressed his intention to reform the nomination system. He said, "We will respond with cleaner and fairer nominations in the June 3 local elections," and added, "We will strictly enforce the newly revised party constitution and regulations related to nominations, and eradicate and block any temptations of corruption at their source so that such thoughts cannot even be entertained."

Furthermore, Jeong stated, "The central party will thoroughly oversee and supervise each city and provincial party to ensure democratic and transparent nominations," and added, "In line with the Lee Jaemyung government of national sovereignty, the party must also transform itself into a fully member-sovereign party."