Internal rift in South Korea's People Power Party over 'disturbance' remark

A heated internal debate has broken out within South Korea's People Power Party (PPP) following lawmaker Bae Hyun-jin's use of the term "soyo," meaning disturbance or riot, to describe protests concerning ballot shortages during the June 5 local elections. The controversy has exposed deep divisions within the party as it grapples with the aftermath of its election defeat and internal leadership struggles.

“

Now, as the entire former council members who are vote counters are present, it is proceeding well, so please do not worry. We should not do anything to provoke further disturbance.

The dispute began in a group chat for PPP lawmakers when Bae Hyun-jin referred to the actions of protesters outside the Olympic Park handball gymnasium, where ballots were being processed, as "soyo." This characterization immediately drew sharp criticism from fellow lawmakers, including Kim Eun-hye, who questioned the choice of words. Other members, like Kim Mi-ae and Lee Jong-wook, also raised concerns, emphasizing the need for more sensitive language.

“

What? Disturbance?

Bae Hyun-jin later attempted to clarify her remarks, stating she meant to urge caution against provoking further "soyo." However, her explanation did not appease her critics. Some party members, like Jung Sung-guk, defended Bae's use of the term by suggesting the context should be considered. Despite the attempts at de-escalation, the exchange underscored a palpable tension within the party regarding how to address public dissent and manage sensitive political situations.

“

Let's try to speak without thorns. That's what I mean.

The internal conflict intensified when screenshots of the chat were leaked, leading Bae Hyun-jin to publicly criticize the "sensationalist" reporting and accuse an unnamed lawmaker of selectively leaking the conversation for political gain. She asserted that the "ballot shortage incident" could not serve as an excuse to erase the failures of the Jang Dong-hyuk leadership in the local elections. This public spat highlights the ongoing power struggles and differing strategies within the PPP as it navigates its post-election challenges.

“

This incident cannot be an eraser for the local election defeat of the Jang Dong-hyuk leadership.