Lee Nak-yeon on Lee Jae-myung and Chung Sye-kyun: "Is being harsh the only way to be clear? Scolding the Ministry of Economy and Finance won't solve anything"

Lee Nak-yeon, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, appeared on KBS 1TV's 'Late Night Debate' on the 23rd to express his position. [Image source = KBS broadcast screen capture]

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Eun-young] On the 23rd, Lee Nak-yeon, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, criticized Gyeonggi Province Governor Lee Jae-myung and Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun, who pressured the financial authorities over measures to respond to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), saying, "Is it only clear if you speak harshly?"

On the 23rd, Lee appeared on KBS's 'Late Night Debate' and was asked, "Prime Minister Chung and Governor Lee strongly criticize Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Hong Nam-ki. Are you closer to the criticism side or the defense side?" He replied, "Constantly scolding the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the so-called treasury keeper, does not achieve anything. Political decisions or agreements are necessary."

He continued, "It is something that should be discussed between the party and the government or among themselves, so is it appropriate to criticize in front of the media?" and added, "Moreover, I find it somewhat questionable whether such behavior is good within the same government."

He then stated, "At this stage, there is no doubt that the treasury must play an active role," and expressed agreement with the need for expansionary fiscal policy, saying, "The treasury is not filled just to be filled. It is filled to be used when needed someday. Shouldn't it be used when necessary so that it can be replenished later?"

He also said, "In that regard, I think an active role in fiscal policy is necessary," and added, "I do not think that speaking harshly makes things clearer."

Earlier on the same day, Lee emphasized through Facebook, "Our community is hurt here and there while experiencing the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19)," and "An active role of fiscal policy is important to recover from wounds and leap into the future."

Meanwhile, regarding Governor Lee's plan to provide 100,000 won to all residents of Gyeonggi Province, Lee Nak-yeon responded negatively again, saying, "According to the opinions of the Council of Governors, the majority prefer selective support due to relative deprivation," and "There is a value that the people should go together, so it is a matter of concern." On the 19th, Lee also criticized the disaster relief fund payment promoted by Governor Lee as a self-contradictory act during an appearance on MBC's 'News Desk.'

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