Park Suhyun: "2030, after 'Yeongkkeul', now it's 'Yeongteol'... Byun Changhoom must take responsibility and resign"

Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Byeon Chang-heum bowed his head before the urgent briefing on the LH speculation allegations at the National Assembly on the 9th. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Soyoung] Park Suhyun, the spokesperson for the Blue House and the Public Relations and Communication Committee Chair of the Democratic Party of Korea, has called for the resignation of Byun Changheum, Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and former president of Korea Land and Housing Corporation (LH), amid allegations of land speculation by LH employees.

On the 9th, Chairman Park appeared on TV Chosun's current affairs show "This is Politics" and stated, "(Minister Byun) should take responsibility for what has happened and resign soon, if not today or tomorrow."

She continued, "The public is suffering greatly from real estate and housing issues," adding, "Young people in their 20s and 30s want to buy homes by 'Yeongkkeul' (borrowing every last bit of money), but now, in relation to the LH scandal, there is even talk of 'Yeongteol' (having their souls completely drained)."

She criticized, "Minister Byun has poured fuel on the flames of public anger even amid this situation."

Chairman Park further added, "President Moon, the government, and the ruling party are trying to resolve this issue, but it is regrettable and infuriating that such a problem has arisen."

Earlier, on the 4th, Minister Byun faced criticism for remarks that seemed to defend the employees suspected of speculation, saying, "It does not seem that they bought land in advance knowing development information."

As controversy intensified over this statement, Minister Byun repeatedly apologized during an emergency briefing at the National Assembly Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee on the 9th, saying, "As the minister in charge of the relevant department and former head of LH, I feel deeply devastated," and "I take full responsibility for the unfortunate incident and sincerely apologize to the public."

He also said, "I am well aware that this incident has caused great disappointment and anger among the public, and I am truly heartbroken and sorry."

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