Hong Ik-pyo on 3rd New Town Cancellation Question: "If Corruption Is Serious, Possibility Should Be Kept Open"

Hong Ik-pyo, Chairman of the Policy Committee of the Democratic Party of Korea, is attending the floor strategy meeting held at the National Assembly on the 9th and delivering opening remarks. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo

[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Chae-eun] Hong Ik-pyo, the Policy Committee Chairman of the Democratic Party of Korea, said on the 9th regarding the speculation controversy involving employees of the Korea Land and Housing Corporation (LH) and the calls to cancel the designation of the 3rd New Towns, "The government and ruling party have not considered it, but if it is serious, that possibility exists."

In an interview on KBS Radio's 'Choi Kyung-young's Strong Current Affairs' on the same day, Hong stated, "The government and ruling party have not reviewed this," but added, "Even if land supply starts now, it will take 5 to 7 years, so after seeing the investigation results, if corruption is found to be widespread in the first or second investigation, I think the possibility of canceling the 3rd New Towns should be considered."

However, Hong further explained, "(But) if it is judged that a certain level of filtering has been done through this investigation, there is no need to delay the new town development issue."

Regarding calls for the dismissal of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Minister Byun Chang-heum, he said, "I have some doubts about whether he should be dismissed just because he was in that position (LH President)," but added, "If he was involved in corruption or knowingly overlooked it, he should be held accountable." Hong also said, "Since he has past experience as a president and understands the nature of the institution well, it might be appropriate to give him the responsibility and authority to strictly investigate and handle this incident," and added, "If there is any connection to condoning or aiding corruption, he must take responsibility."

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