Jin Joong-kwon: "Kim Hye-kyung's Apology Is Simply Provocative... It Backfires"

"The core issue is being completely avoided... Framing it as Bae's abuse of power problem"

Former Dongyang University Professor Jin Joong-kwon Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kang Wooseok] Former Dongyang University professor Jin Joong-kwon criticized Kim Hye-kyung, spouse of Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, saying her apology regarding the controversy over her 'excessive protocol' was "simply provocative" and that "she should actually be given minus points, and it would be better not to apologize in this manner."

On the afternoon of the 9th, Jin appeared on CBS Radio's 'One Round Match' and said, "If you look at what she (Kim Hye-kyung) apologized for, ultimately this is an issue arising from the relationship between Ms. Bae and Mr. A. I have never met Mr. A, but I will take responsibility," adding, "She is completely avoiding the core issue and framing this as a problem of Ms. Bae's abuse of power."

He continued, "The core of the problem is that Ms. Bae essentially acted as a personal servant to Kim Hye-kyung," raising his voice, "This is a case where a public official, paid by the state, was treated like a personal slave."

Jin further stated, "Ms. Bae was supposed to handle external affairs and deal with foreigners, but she did not even come to work," and added, "In fact, this is a case of two public servants, employed with taxpayers' money, being privately exploited, but there has been no mention of this, and they are trying to avoid investigation or audit."

On the previous day (the 9th), Kim held a press conference at the Democratic Party headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul, to directly apologize for the recent 'protocol controversy.' This apology came 12 days after related allegations were reported on the 28th of last month.

Kim said, "As the spouse of a public official, I should have been cautious in every aspect and clearly distinguished between public and private matters, but I was very lacking," promising to be more careful and vigilant in the future. She continued, "I sincerely apologize to the public, especially to the whistleblower involved," and reiterated, "It is all due to my fault and shortcomings. I will be more careful and vigilant going forward."

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