Hong Jun-pyo: "A Thug-like Presidential Election Like Watching a Makjang Drama, Unhappy If Yoon Wins"

"Having Spent 26 Years in Yeouido Politics, I Feel Utterly Embarrassed... I Apologize, Offering a Thousandfold Apologies"

Hong Jun-pyo, a member of the People Power Party, is giving a greeting at the JP Hope Camp closing ceremony held on the morning of the 8th at the BNB Tower in Yeouido, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Soyoung] Hong Joon-pyo, a member of the People Power Party, referred to the current presidential election situation as "a presidential election that feels like watching a makjang drama, where no citizen is willing to easily choose a candidate," sharply criticizing Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, and Yoon Seok-youl, the People Power Party candidate.

On the 16th, through his platform 'Cheongnyeon-ui Kkum' (Youth's Dream), Hong said, "In my 26 years in Yeouido politics, this is the sixth presidential election I have experienced, but I have never encountered a presidential election like this 'makjang drama' before," expressing his criticism.

He added, "All major candidates from both ruling and opposition parties and their families are under investigation or trial for criminal charges," and said, "While accusations of political retaliation are rampant, and none of the parties or members involved seem interested in the future of the Republic of Korea, the citizens' hearts are burning even more with frustration."

He continued, "I am deeply embarrassed as someone who has spent 26 years in Yeouido politics to see such a thug-like presidential election in this era of advanced countries. I apologize. I offer my apologies a thousand, ten thousand times over."

When asked about his thoughts if candidate Yoon becomes president, Hong responded, "Pointing out the candidate's gaffes will only make the Republic of Korea unhappy."

However, when asked, "If Yoon Seok-youl and the People Power Party are defeated on March 9 next year, what should we do?" he clearly stated, "That should not happen."

Finally, in response to the question, "If the support rates for candidates Yoon and Lee drop sharply and a third party rises, will you take any action?" he emphasized, "I will still protect the party." When asked, "Do you plan to run for president disregarding the primary results?" he drew a clear line, saying, "No."

Earlier, candidate Yoon said in an interview with Kukmin Ilbo published that day, "Hong member has not answered my calls yet. I think he wants to rest a little more." He added, "Former member Yoo Seung-min also does not answer calls. However, even if it takes some time, we will eventually become one team."

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