Lee Nak-yeon on Hwang Kyo-ik's 'Resignation': "No Special Comments... Pro-Japanese Controversy Is Excessive"

Former Democratic Party presidential candidate Lee Nak-yeon is answering reporters' questions after announcing a growth strategy pledge for small and venture businesses at the National Assembly Communication Office in Yeouido, Seoul, on the 19th.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Seohyun] Taste columnist Hwang Kyo-ik expressed his intention to withdraw as a candidate for the president of the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization on the 20th, while former Democratic Party presidential candidate Lee Nak-yeon dismissed the issue, saying, "I have nothing special to say."

On the morning of the same day, former Representative Lee said on CBS Radio's 'Kim Hyun-jung's News Show,' "I have never mentioned that matter (Hwang's controversy over the pro-Japanese appointment and resignation). I hope you accept it as it is, that one of my comrades who supports me made an excessive remark that reminded people of pro-Japanese sentiment," he said.

Earlier, former lawmaker Shin Kyung-min from Lee's camp said on CBS Radio on the 17th that Hwang had disparaged Korean food by comparing it to Japanese cuisine, sparking a 'pro-Japanese frame' controversy. As the controversy escalated, Hwang said, "I will focus on ending Lee Nak-yeon's political life."

In response, Lee said on the 19th, "I think it was excessive for a responsible person in our camp to raise the pro-Japanese issue," effectively apologizing to Hwang. Hwang also expressed his apology, saying, "I think it was excessive for me to mention terms like 'beast,' 'political life,' and 'tailcoat' to former Representative Lee Nak-yeon."

Meanwhile, on the morning of the 20th, Hwang announced his intention to resign through his Facebook, saying, "I do not want to cause trouble. I will relinquish my candidacy for the president of the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization."

He appealed, "The owner of the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization is the residents of Gyeonggi Province. My expertise and management ability have already been verified, and I wanted to work as the president of the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization after being chosen by the provincial council members representing the residents of Gyeonggi."

He continued, "However, politicians from the central government, including members of the National Assembly, interfered with the rights of Gyeonggi residents, creating an environment where it is impossible to proceed," adding, "Due to the commotion they caused, it seems that many employees of the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization have already suffered significant damage." He also apologized, saying, "I made political slanders to protect my dignity and rights."

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