Song Young-gil Defends Kim Hye-kyung: "I Think She Did Well to Apologize Personally"

"All Suspicion Issues Are Being Resolved Well"

Song Young-gil, Leader of the Democratic Party of Korea Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kang Wooseok] Song Young-gil, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, on the 10th commented on the public apology regarding allegations of misuse of corporate cards by Kim Hye-kyung, spouse of presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung, saying, "The Kim Hye-kyung matter was quite embarrassing, but she came forward and apologized well."

In an interview with TV Chosun that day, when asked by the host, "Among various allegations such as Daejang-dong, Seongnam FC, and Kim Hye-kyung, which issue is the hardest to defend?" Song replied, "I think all are being resolved well."

Regarding criticism that Kim’s apology was too general, he said, "I think she had no choice but to apologize broadly because she was not well aware of the details provided by the then 7th-grade public official who reported the excessive protocol controversy," adding, "Even my secretary uses both the corporate card and the party leader’s expense card, so I don’t know the details of each item well."

He continued, "She (Kim Hye-kyung) officially apologized, taking full responsibility herself."

Regarding candidate Lee’s call for regime change, Song stated, "I naturally think so. Candidate Lee Jae-myung is creating a new regime," adding, "He is forming a new government by inheriting the strengths of the Moon Jae-in administration while supplementing its shortcomings."

On the hesitation among pro-Moon supporters within the Democratic Party to back candidate Lee, he claimed, "In the final stage, the strength will come together," explaining, "(Candidate Lee) is a candidate who inherits the fundamental philosophy and policies of the Moon Jae-in government."

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