Ahn Cheol-soo Completes Marathon, Files 100 Million Won Defamation Suit Against Private Research Director Over Health Rumors

People Power Party lawmaker Ahn Cheol-soo (61) has filed a civil lawsuit seeking 100 million won in damages against Jang Seong-cheol (53), head of the Public Opinion Center, who raised allegations about his health.

On the 5th, the Seoul Southern District Court announced that the damages lawsuit filed by lawmaker Ahn against Jang on the 31st of last month was assigned to Judge Ahn Hong-jun of Civil Division 6.

On the 29th of last month, Assemblyman Ahn Cheol-soo, who completed the full course at the Chuncheon Marathon, is celebrating. [Image source=Screenshot from Assemblyman Ahn Cheol-soo's Instagram]

Earlier, on the 17th of last month, Jang stated on CBS Radio's "Kim Hyun-jung's News Show" "Lawmaker Ahn had heart problems and was in a somewhat dangerous situation twice." This comment was made while analyzing remarks by former People Power Party leader Lee Jun-seok, who the day before targeted Ahn by saying, "I do not deal with sick people." Jang clarified, "Former leader Lee Jun-seok was expressing that Ahn Cheol-soo’s health was not good, not implying any mental issues."

Ahn Cheol-soo’s office strongly responded, saying, "They are deceiving the public with malicious falsehoods to support former leader Lee Jun-seok’s mockery," and warned, "If the false statements are not corrected and apologized for by today, we will take legal action."

Jang countered by revealing new facts. On Facebook, he wrote, "Please understand that I have no choice but to respond as I have been threatened with legal action," adding, "On the afternoon of June 2, 2022, Lawmaker Ahn collapsed, cardiopulmonary resuscitation was performed, and he was taken by ambulance to the emergency room of Bundang Jesaeng Hospital. I am not comfortable having to disclose this fact. If the threats continue, I will also release photos of the ambulance."

On the 29th of last month, Ahn directly confronted the health controversy by completing the full course (42.195 km) at the Chuncheon Marathon (jointly hosted by Chosun Ilbo, Sports Chosun, and the Korea Association of Athletics Federations).

He said, "Politicians who receive salaries funded by the people's taxes have an obligation to properly manage their physical and mental health," adding, "If possible, I want to run marathons until I am 80 years old. Next year, I will challenge myself to improve my record."

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