Dongducheon Council Chair Faces Resignation Calls Over Prostitution Remarks and Clinic Demolition Dispute

A coalition of over 40 women's and civic organizations has called for the resignation of Dongducheon City Council Chairperson Lim Hyun-sook, citing her alleged remarks that prostitution is a "necessary evil" and her role in a protest and hunger strike demanding the demolition of a former venereal disease clinic. The groups are also demanding an ethics and disciplinary process against her.

The controversy stems from alleged statements made by Lim during a visit to the Dongducheon Police Station last month. Multiple council members reportedly testified that Lim interrupted colleagues advocating for crackdowns on prostitution businesses by making these remarks. The organizations condemned the statements as condoning illegal prostitution and trivializing violence against women, demanding a retraction and apology.

Furthermore, the groups are questioning the process by which public opinion favoring the clinic's demolition was formed. While a statement supporting demolition claimed over 80 women supported it with support from Saeumteo, Saeumteo stated they had never conducted interviews or issued an official statement. The organizations accuse Lim of participating as a "citizen supporting demolition" without disclosing her position as city council chairperson, demanding a public apology to the victims.

Lim and demolition supporters argue the building hinders the development of Soyosan by perpetuating the 'Kijichon' (camptown) image and propose creating a separate memorial space after demolition. Preservation advocates, however, insist the site, where women were forcibly housed and examined by the state, should be used as a human rights and peace space. A dialogue committee, formed in April by various government bodies and organizations, is scheduled to discuss national responsibility and the building's utilization.