Lee Hae-chan "The demolition of the liaison office crossed a red line that should not have been crossed"

Lee Hae-chan, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, and Kim Tae-nyeon, floor leader, are attending the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly on the 17th. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Won Dara] Lee Hae-chan, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, criticized North Korea's demolition of the inter-Korean joint liaison office, saying it "crossed a red line that should not be crossed."

On the morning of the 17th at the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly, Lee said, "There is a red line that must not be crossed under any circumstances," adding, "North Korea's act of blowing up the liaison office crossed that red line."

He continued, "The reason we have come this far despite repeated confrontations and reconciliations between the South and the North over the past several decades is because many citizens have wished for peace and tried to understand the other side," and said, "Such actions may cause a momentary shock, but they will sow anxiety and distrust in the hearts of Koreans and have a long-term adverse effect on peace on the Korean Peninsula."

He then urged, "We call on the North to stop provocations and immediately come to the dialogue table," and requested, "The government should strictly handle leaflet distribution while also preparing to respond to any provocations from North Korea."

Regarding the situation in the National Assembly, Lee said, "The Democratic Party activated the standing committees yesterday," and added, "Even if the standing committee formation is not complete, since the allocation of standing committee members has been finalized, I ask that member meetings be held to find ways to resolve current issues."

He also said, "The COVID-19 national crisis and emergency economic situation are overlapping with inter-Korean issues," and commented, "The attitude of the United Future Party toward the National Assembly these days seems unchanged compared to the Liberty Korea Party up to the 20th National Assembly. I hope they will once again reflect on the will of the people expressed in the general election."

Regarding the lawsuit demanding tuition refunds due to COVID-19 non-face-to-face classes, he said, "An official tripartite dialogue among the Ministry of Education, universities, and students is necessary before the start of the second semester registration," and added, "The Ministry of Education should also approach this with an open attitude. The Democratic Party will actively participate where necessary."

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