Hong Jun-pyo on "Unhappiness if President Yoon Takes Office," Lee Jun-seok Says "Continued Criticism Would Be Problematic"

"Aftereffects of Primary Seem to Remain... Concerns Over Loss of Conservative Support Base"

Lee Jun-seok, leader of the People Power Party (left), Hong Joon-pyo, member of the People Power Party./Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Juhee] Lee Jun-seok, leader of the People Power Party, criticized fellow party member Hong Joon-pyo, who harshly said, "If candidate Yoon Seok-yeol is elected, South Korea will become unhappy," by pointing out, "It would be difficult if such expressions continue."

On the 17th, Lee appeared on CBS Radio's 'One Round Match' and said, "Since Representative Hong fiercely competed in the primary, people are understanding that a period of rest and mental recovery is needed."

Earlier, after being eliminated from the People Power Party presidential primary, Hong responded on the online platform 'Youth's Dream' to a supporter who asked, "What do you think if candidate Yoon Seok-yeol becomes president?" by saying, "Only South Korea will become unhappy."

On the 18th, Lee also appeared on TBS Radio's 'Kim Eo-jun's News Factory' and, when asked if Hong's remarks posed a risk, said, "(Hong) expressed acceptance of the results, but it seems there are aftereffects following the election," adding, "Many citizens seem to think we should wait a bit since it's only been about ten days since the primary."

He continued, "There were reports that (candidate Yoon) called about five times, and despite the candidate's continued efforts, if Representative Hong continues like this, public opinion may turn unfavorable toward him," emphasizing, "the candidate must make every effort, and Representative Hong should also respond accordingly."

He added, "After all, Representative Hong is a politician based on conservative supporters within the conservative camp, so there is a risk of losing that base," and expressed hope that "Representative Hong will find an appropriate line."

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