Lee Junseok Proposes Meeting to Jang Donghyeok and Cho Kuk... People Power Party "Accepts Unconditionally"

Lee Junseok, Representative of the Reform New Party, stated on January 11 that the leadership of the three opposition parties-the People Power Party, the Reform New Party, and the Cho Kuk Innovation Party-should meet to discuss the enactment of a special prosecutor bill in order to investigate allegations of nomination bribery involving former Democratic Party floor leader Kim Byungki and expelled lawmaker Kang Sunwoo.

Lee Junseok, Representative of the Reform New Party. Photo by Yonhap News

In a post on Facebook that day, Lee said, “I call on Jang Donghyeok, Representative of the People Power Party, and Cho Kuk, Representative of the Cho Kuk Innovation Party. I propose a joint meeting of opposition party leaders,” adding, “This meeting would be to discuss the prompt enactment of a special prosecutor bill to ensure a swift launch of the special prosecutor to thoroughly investigate both the Jeon Jaesoo-Unification Church case and the Kim Byungki-Kang Sunwoo nomination bribery case.”

Aiming his criticism at the Democratic Party, Lee said, “Even in the face of clear allegations of nomination bribery, the investigation is stagnating. The special prosecutor for the Unification Church case is also being delayed and neglected. We cannot stand by and watch the ruling party undermine the rule of law any longer.”

Addressing the Innovation Party, Lee stated, “It is the duty of the opposition to push for a special prosecutor and fair investigations in the face of a corrupt ruling party. Please set aside ideology and identity, and fulfill the role entrusted to the opposition by the people.”

Jang Donghyeok, Representative of the People Power Party, responded, “I accept Representative Lee’s proposal unconditionally,” adding, “Investigations into the Unification Church case and the nomination bribery case, both involving key figures in the ruling camp, are not being properly conducted. A special prosecutor is absolutely necessary to ensure a thorough and swift investigation.”

Jang further stated, “Adding conditions would only admit a lack of sincerity in the special prosecutor bill. The remaining issues can be coordinated in person. I hope Representative Cho will make a magnanimous decision.”

Seo Wangjin, floor leader of the Innovation Party, commented, “The Innovation Party has been at the forefront in demanding a thorough investigation into the nomination bribery issues centered around the two major parties. If there is opposition to including the Shincheonji Church in the scope of the special prosecutor, it appears to be an argument aimed at attacking the Democratic Party, rather than a genuine attempt to resolve the issue.”