Kim Bu-gyeom: "Government Must Use Coercive Measures for Mask Supply Like Wartime Requisition"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Wondara] Kim Boo-kyum, co-chairman of the Democratic Party's Daegu-Gyeongbuk joint election committee, stated that the government should use coercive power to manage mask supply. Regarding discussions on the formation of a satellite party by the Democratic Party, he clearly expressed opposition, saying, "The Democratic Party is a party of people who pursue justice, not profit."

On the afternoon of the 29th, Kim posted on his Facebook, "It rained all day yesterday in Daegu, but I saw a long line of people waiting to buy masks," adding, "Since the next two weeks are critical for Daegu, I hope the government takes stronger measures."

Kim pointed out, "No matter how much we talk about a free market economy, this is a national disaster situation." He emphasized, "Just like requisitioning during wartime, the government can use coercive power now," and added, "Factories should operate at full capacity, and masks should be immediately shipped as soon as they are produced." He also said, "Since the supplementary budget has been confirmed, the government can settle payments with mask manufacturers using that money," and expressed regret, "I don't know what citizens who wait in line for three to four hours to buy a few masks must be thinking. I am truly sorry."

Regarding the Democratic Party's discussion on forming a satellite party, he clearly opposed it. He said, "I saw articles about some within the Democratic Party considering a satellite party amid the COVID-19 crisis," and added, "It may seem trivial to talk about elections now, but I want to briefly state my position. I oppose it." He also described it as 'penny wise, pound foolish.'

He further said, "There is a saying, 'Look to gain and loss carefully,'" and emphasized, "The Democratic Party must follow the right path. We are a party of people who pursue justice, not profit. Let's trust the people and walk steadily forward."

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