Lawmaker Kim Min-jeon sparks controversy with remarks on former presidents

A recent social media post by People Power Party lawmaker Kim Min-jeon has ignited a political firestorm, with opposition parties sharply criticizing her praise for former presidents Park Geun-hye and Yoon Suk-yeol. The controversy erupted after Park Geun-hye attended a retreat for People Power Party lawmakers, where she urged unity. Following this event, Kim posted on Facebook, expressing gratitude for Park's words and stating, 'I earnestly hope to see President Yoon Suk-yeol again soon.'

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President Park Geun-hye's words yesterday were gratitude and emotion itself. I earnestly hope to see President Yoon Suk-yeol again soon.

The Democratic Party immediately condemned Kim's remarks. Party spokesperson Park Sang-hyun described the comments as 'absurd,' particularly coming from Kim, whom he referred to as having 'brought the 'White Skull Unit' to the National Assembly.' He argued that such effusive praise for two former presidents who faced public judgment demonstrates that the People Power Party has devolved from a public party into an anachronistic, private organization.

Park Sang-hyun further elaborated on the opposition's stance, stating, 'Seeking counsel from a constitutional violator, praising reunions with impeached leaders, and engaging in extreme right-wing conspiracy theories and historical distortion, these elements now dominate the party. The foundation of a sound conservative party has completely crumbled.' He concluded that the only way to break this 'chain of horrific collapse' is for the People Power Party to voluntarily disband.

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Lawmaker Kim Min-jeon, who brought the 'White Skull Unit' to the National Assembly, posted absurd remarks on social media that are out of touch with public sentiment.

This is not the first time Kim Min-jeon has courted controversy. She previously opposed the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, arguing on Facebook that while the National Assembly has the right to impeach, the president should not be restricted in exercising their constitutional powers, framing it as 'Yoon Again.' Last January, she also faced criticism for arranging a press conference at the National Assembly for a far-right youth organization that referred to itself as the 'White Skull Unit,' highlighting a pattern of aligning with controversial groups and viewpoints.

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Seeking counsel from a constitutional violator, praising reunions with impeached leaders, and engaging in extreme right-wing conspiracy theories and historical distortion, these elements now dominate the party. The foundation of a sound conservative party has completely crumbled.