Gidongmin: "If There Was Even 1% Political Consideration in Asan·Jincheon Quarantine, They Will Be Punished by Heaven"

"Increased Number of Migration Applications"
"Political Consideration Is a Greatly Exaggerated Claim"
"Government Caused Resident Opposition by Announcing Unconfirmed Plans... Government Should Be Criticized"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Wondara] Ki Dong-min, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, commented on the change of the novel coronavirus (Wuhan pneumonia) quarantine facilities initially reported to be in Cheonan to Asan and Jincheon, saying, "It is because the capacity increased," and added, "The claim that it was due to political considerations is an excessive assertion."

Currently, residents of the Asan and Jincheon areas are holding protest rallies against the relocation of the quarantine facilities for returnees from Wuhan, China, from Cheonan to Asan and Jincheon. Some have raised suspicions that the change was made because three Democratic Party lawmakers represent constituencies in Cheonan.

On the morning of the 31st, Ki appeared on MBC Radio and responded to the question, "There is criticism that the quarantine facility was moved from Cheonan to Asan and Jincheon because all three lawmakers representing Cheonan are from the Democratic Party," by saying, "If even 1% of that is true, it would be a matter deserving divine punishment." He further emphasized, "Saying that it was moved due to opposition from residents of a specific area or other political considerations is a very excessive political claim."

Ki explained the reason for changing the quarantine facilities from Cheonan to Asan and Jincheon as "because the number of applicants increased."

He said, "It is true that facilities in Cheonan were considered," and added, "The time when Cheonan was considered was around the 24th, and one or two places near Cheonan that could accommodate about 300 people were suitable." He continued, "On the 26th, there were 500 applicants, on the 27th, 694, and now the number of people we are trying to accommodate is 720," adding, "The scale completely changes the situation."

Regarding criticism that there are no large hospitals in the Asan and Jincheon areas, he said, "We also have to consider proximity to hospitals," and added, "There is a distance that can be traveled by car." He further stated, "This decision was made after a comprehensive review based on four or five criteria," and asked, "I hope people will understand the difficulties and the comprehensive considerations behind this decision."

Ki criticized the government for leaking the quarantine facility plan. He said, "I think the government should humbly accept criticism for causing conflicts and opposition among residents by leaking the policy in advance without thorough and comprehensive review."

Regarding the government's decision not to ban foreign entry, he said, "Although the WHO declared a state of emergency, it did not restrict movement or trade. I believe there are reasons for this." About the Chinese government allowing only one charter flight to enter, he said, "The Chinese authorities probably want to minimize such appearances and inform the world accordingly."

Meanwhile, Ki commented on the overseas trips of the mayors of Uijeongbu and Wonju, both members of the Democratic Party, saying, "There may be sufficient reasons, but I think they should avoid actions that could be misunderstood." He added, "Public officials should align with how the public views this situation," and said, "We will accurately investigate the facts and take measures. I apologize."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.