Park Beom-gye Apologizes for Remarks Saying, "'Members, Please Save Us' Just Once" (Comprehensive)

"Questions Asked with a Desperate Heart for Budget Recovery... Apologies for Any Misunderstanding"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Chun-han] On the 5th, Park Beom-gye, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, said to Cho Jae-yeon, Chief of the Court Administration Office and Supreme Court Justice, during the National Assembly Judiciary Committee's full budget review meeting, "Members, please save the budget once. Just do it once." Park mentioned the budget for the 'Beopgoeul LX' project, a collection of court precedents, which was cut from 30 million won last year to zero, advising Cho's "earnest appeal."

Park said, "The Judiciary Committee thoroughly reviews even budgets smaller than a single bridge or road," adding, "Beopgoeul LX is a collection of materials with a proud tradition. Shouldn't we save it?"

When Cho asked, "Please take a close look during the National Assembly discussions," Park replied, "Please say it earnestly, even if it's just 30 million won." He continued, "That's how it works. Say, 'Members, please save it. This is truly necessary for the people. It's only the amount equivalent to a single bridge or a deck plate.' Just say it once."

When Cho only smiled, Park said with a laugh, "Please save it, it would be over with just one word. It's really frustrating." He then concluded his inquiry by saying, "Justice, I will do it on your behalf."

After controversy arose, Park issued a press release stating, "I asked the question with an earnest desire for the budget to be restored," but added, "However, I think this expression may have caused misunderstandings that a National Assembly member with budget review authority abused superior power. I apologize in that regard."

Park also said, "I indirectly asked the Chief of the Court Administration Office if he was uncomfortable with the expression, and I received an indirect message not to worry about it."

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