Hong Joon-pyo slams ruling party over Shincheonji row

Former Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo has sharply criticized the ruling People Power Party for its vocal opposition to alleged Shincheonji involvement in the Democratic Party's national convention. Hong likened the situation to "a dirty dog scolding a dog with mange," accusing the party of hypocrisy.

Hong stated that when he previously raised concerns about Shincheonji members interfering in party elections, the People Power Party remained silent, a stance he described as "mouth-shutting." He expressed disbelief that the same party is now accusing the Democratic Party of violating the principle of separation of church and state.

"You have been bringing Shincheonji into your internal elections for a long time, and now you are suddenly speaking up about the Democratic Party's involvement?" Hong questioned. He demanded that the People Power Party conduct a thorough investigation of its own party membership list to identify and expel any Shincheonji or Unification Church members before leveling accusations against others.

Hong concluded by calling the People Power Party's actions "shameless," suggesting they are projecting their own internal issues onto another party. His remarks highlight a significant internal political dispute within South Korea's conservative camp.