Lee Jun-seok on Yoon's LA Wildfire Message: "People Are Stressed, But He Seems Relaxed"

by Heo Midam

Published 13 Jan.2025 11:24(KST)

Yoon: "If help is needed, the government should provide support"

President Yoon Seok-yeol, whose duties have been suspended due to impeachment by the National Assembly, issued a message regarding the wildfires in Los Angeles (LA), USA. In response, Lee Jun-seok, a member of the Reform New Party, interpreted this as "showing a great deal of psychological composure at the moment."

On the 13th, Lee appeared on SBS's 'Kim Tae-hyun's Political Show' and said, "The public is currently experiencing significant stress syndrome related to martial law."

Lee added, "I cannot shake the feeling that this situation is heading in a strange direction," and said, "It seems likely that President Yoon might misinterpret the situation again here." He continued, "There are two parallel processes: the impeachment procedure underway at the Constitutional Court and the criminal proceedings. The physical force being used to block the mobilization of supporters is part of the criminal investigation process, but the impeachment is still ongoing. However, if he falls into the delusion that his impeachment will be dismissed, he might issue even stranger orders to his supporters." Lee claimed that President Yoon might demand stronger physical resistance from his supporters.

Lee Jun-seok, Member of the Reform New Party. Yonhap News Agency

When the host asked, "Do you think President Yoon posting a Facebook message about the LA wildfires implies that, although his duties as head of state are suspended, he still retains his position and is internally preparing for his return soon?" Lee responded, "Of course, that intention is there." He added, "It seems he wants to prove that he will return soon and is properly monitoring various issues." He also said, "I think President Yoon is misjudging the situation internally."

Earlier, President Yoon said regarding the large wildfire in LA, USA, "The United States is a precious ally that held our hand during the most difficult times for the Republic of Korea, and LA is where the largest number of our overseas Koreans live worldwide." He added, "If help is needed, I ask the government to provide support and do its best to prevent damage to our overseas Koreans." He continued, "I express my condolences and sympathy to those who suffered unexpected damage and convey my heartfelt sympathy to the American people," and said, "I sincerely hope the wildfire will be extinguished quickly and the damage restored."

This is the second time President Yoon has posted on Facebook since his impeachment. Previously, on the 29th of last month, he posted a condolence message regarding the Jeju Air disaster. At that time, President Yoon said, "I am deeply saddened and devastated," and added, "I believe the government will do its best to manage the accident and support the victims."