Opposition Young Leaders Warn Hong Jun-pyo's Reinstatement... "Will Only Accept the Intention"

Kim Woong, who had a heated exchange with Hong Jun-pyo, says "Please show a more developed side to the juniors"

Kim Jae-seop, Emergency Response Committee Member of the People Power Party [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Jun-yi] On the 10th, independent lawmaker Hong Joon-pyo announced his intention to rejoin the People Power Party, sparking a series of critical remarks from the party's reformist faction. Alongside voices opposing Hong's return, there were also admonitions urging younger members to show improved conduct.

Kim Jae-seop, an emergency committee member of the People Power Party, wrote on Facebook that day, "I know opposing Hong's return is like a frog trying to stop a chariot," but added, "Nevertheless, I still believe that the only way to preserve Hong's sincere loyalty, cultivated over 26 years of party service, is for him not to rejoin."

He emphasized, "Setting aside personal political gains or losses, if we take another look at how the times and public sentiment have changed, I believe we will better understand what needs to be done," and added, "I will accept only the heartfelt loyalty for the party."

Kim Woong, member of the People Power Party. Photo by Yoon Dong-ju doso7@

Kim Woong, a People Power Party lawmaker who has declared his candidacy for party leader, referred to the verbal exchange with Hong the previous day in a Facebook post, delivering a critical message. Kim said, "Respected senior Hong Joon-pyo, it is truly regrettable that we, who used to work out together at the National Assembly gym, have come to exchange such sharp words," and added, "Even if I engage in 'reckless politics without seniors or juniors, without hierarchy,' I will try to be understanding, thinking it is your way."

He continued, "The time for you to change is when 'the world calls you again,'" and said, "Even salt gets moldy over time. If a young pigeon cannot cross a high ridge, please help, senior." He urged Hong, "Please show a more developed side to the juniors."

On the 9th, Hong criticized Kim on Facebook, saying, "Isn't it a bit much for someone who has only been in politics for a year to recklessly claim to want to be party leader just by virtue of age?" In response, Kim likened Hong to a 'dust-covered artificial flower' and countered, "I will live like a plum blossom. Sir, please live like an unfading artificial flower."

Meanwhile, that morning, Hong held a press conference at the National Assembly Communication Office and declared, "I now intend to return," announcing that he would proceed with the rejoining process.

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