The Democratic Party of Korea held its fourth outdoor rally on the 23rd, condemning the Yoon Seok-yeol regime and urging the acceptance of the ‘First Lady Kim Kun-hee Special Prosecutor Act’. Representative Lee Jae-myeong, who is about to be sentenced in the first trial on charges of violating perjury, attended but did not make a speech.
At 5:30 p.m. on this day, the Democratic Party held a rally in the Gwanghwamun area of Jongno-gu called the ’4th National Action Day to call for a special prosecutor to condemn Kim Kun-hee and Yoon Seok-yeol for their corruption in state affairs.’
Floor leader Park Chan-dae said, “After two and a half years of Yoon Seok-yeol’s administration, the country’s system has completely broken down,” adding, “Democracy, the people’s economy, diplomacy and security, none of it is sound. “The country has lost its way and the people’s lives are falling endlessly,” he pointed out.
He continued, “We took to the streets to save the Republic of Korea from crisis and set the country straight,” and added, “The owners of the Republic of Korea are our people, not the couple Yoon Seok-yeol and Kim Geon-hee. “We, the real owners, must correct what the fake owners have ruined,” he said.
Floor Leader Park said, “Anyone who refuses a special prosecution is a culprit,” and added, “If you are honest, there is no reason to refuse a special prosecution.” “President Yoon Seok-yeol must take seriously the severity of the declaration of the current situation, which is spreading like wildfire,” he emphasized.
He added, “Kim Kun-hee cannot be an exception. Kim Geon-hee should also be investigated and punished like an ordinary citizen. “This is our demand and the people’s order,” he said. “If you refuse special prosecutor Kim Kun-hee, you will burn like a burning torch.” He raised his voice, saying, “Our people will notify you that you are no longer our president.”
At the rally on this day, about 6,000 people (police estimate) gathered at 5:30 p.m., and about 9,000 people gathered at 6 p.m. Before the rally started, one or two fences fell over as some people gathered on the sidewalk instead of the roadway, but it was immediately fixed. It was confirmed that there were no injuries. Additionally, it is reported that there were no conflicts with the police, arrests, etc.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Party erased the party’s color from rallies by issuing a so-called ‘blue clothing ban’ prohibiting city/provincial parties and local committees from wearing blue clothing, which symbolizes the Democratic Party.
Jo Yoo-kyung, Donga.com reporter [email protected]
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What are the main factors contributing to the political unrest in South Korea as discussed in the interview with Dr. Kim Hae-jin?
Title: Unpacking the Political Unrest in South Korea: An Interview with Political Analyst Dr. Kim Hae-jin
Time.news Editor: Good morning, Dr. Kim. Thank you for joining us today. The recent rally held by the Democratic Party of Korea has captured significant public attention. Can you provide some context on what sparked this protest?
Dr. Kim Hae-jin: Good morning, and thank you for having me. The rally, held on November 23rd, is part of an ongoing series of demonstrations organized by the Democratic Party of Korea to condemn the administration of President Yoon Seok-yeol and his wife, Kim Geon-hee, over allegations of corruption in state affairs. This particular event was dubbed the ’4th National Action Day’ and highlights growing frustrations among citizens regarding transparency and accountability in governance.
Time.news Editor: It seems this rally was a platform for strong statements against the current regime. What were some notable comments made by the party leaders?
Dr. Kim Hae-jin: Indeed, there were fervent calls for accountability. Floor leader Park Chan-dae passionately criticized the Yoon administration, claiming that “the country’s system has completely broken down” after two and a half years in power. He stressed that democracy and the people’s economy are in peril, and called upon the citizens to reclaim ownership of their nation from what he termed “the fake owners,” specifically calling out the First Lady, Kim Geon-hee.
Time.news Editor: That’s quite a strong assertion. Park’s comments suggest a division in public sentiment about the leadership. How are these protests affecting Yoon Seok-yeol’s government?
Dr. Kim Hae-jin: The protests reflect a significant disenchantment with the Yoon administration. As the opposition rallies continue to gain momentum, public support for the government appears to be dwindling. The call for a special prosecutor to investigate Kim Geon-hee represents a direct challenge to the legitimacy of the current leadership. Such demands, if met with continued resistance, could amplify public frustrations and lead to further unrest.
Time.news Editor: It was reported that around 9,000 people attended the rally and that the organizers issued a ‘blue clothing ban’. What do you think this means in terms of party identity and strategy?
Dr. Kim Hae-jin: The ‘blue clothing ban’ is particularly telling; it’s a strategic move to emphasize unity and dissent against the current government, while downplaying party colors to foster broader public support from non-Democratic Party members. The Democrats seem to recognise that the essence of this movement must transcend party lines, appealing to a wider base that encompasses various grievances beyond typical partisan divides.
Time.news Editor: This paints a picture of a restless political climate in South Korea. Looking ahead, what are the potential implications of these protests for South Korean democracy and the upcoming elections?
Dr. Kim Hae-jin: The current unrest is unprecedented in its organization and breadth, signaling a critical moment for South Korean democracy. If the Democratic Party can maintain momentum and articulate a viable alternative to the current government, it may reshape electoral dynamics significantly. However, if the protests are sidelined or met with heavy-handed responses, it could lead to increased polarization or even instability. The next elections will undoubtedly be influenced by how these events unfold.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Kim, for your insights. It’s clear that South Korea is facing pivotal challenges, and how the situation develops will be crucial not only for the political environment but also for the citizenry’s trust in democratic institutions.
Dr. Kim Hae-jin: Thank you for having me. It’s an evolving situation that deserves close attention.