[Editorial] PPP’s shameless parade of disgraced presidents

Former South Korean presidents Lee Myung-bak and Park Geun-hye are making frequent campaign appearances for the opposition People Power Party (PPP) ahead of the June 3 local elections. This activity has drawn criticism, with the article questioning the appropriateness of their involvement given their past convictions for crimes committed while in office.

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It boggles the mind that the two received presidential pardons while serving prison sentences for crimes committed while in office.

Lee Myung-bak, sentenced to 17 years for bribery, and Park Geun-hye, who received a 22-year sentence for abuse of power and bribery, were both pardoned while serving their terms. Despite their pardons restoring legal rights, the article argues their guilt remains unaddressed. Their current campaigning, which includes stops in various cities like Busan, Seoul, Daegu, and Daejeon, suggests a significant commitment to the PPP's electoral efforts.

The article contrasts their situation with that of former U.S. presidents or even former South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who also supported candidates after leaving office. However, it emphasizes that Lee and Park's circumstances are distinct due to the nature of their crimes. The publication expresses a lack of expectation for them to act as national unity figures, instead calling for a "modicum of human decency."

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All we ask is that they behave with a modicum of human decency befitting their status as pardoned individuals.

The PPP is identified as largely responsible for this situation, accused of pandering to groups who supported former President Yoon Suk-yeol's actions and now reaching out to disgraced former presidents. The article suggests this strategy is a shameless display by the party.

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The PPP is largely to blame for all this.