Lawmaker's 'Long live Kim Il-sung' remark sparks backlash, apology

A heated exchange occurred in the South Korean National Assembly when Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Jun-hwan directed a controversial remark at Park Chung-kwon, a member of the People Power Party and a defector from North Korea. During a plenary session of the Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee, Kim questioned Park's past, stating, "Aren't you someone who used to shout 'Long live Kim Il-sung'?"

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Aren't you someone who used to shout 'Long live Kim Il-sung'?

The comment immediately drew strong objections from opposition lawmakers. Park Chung-kwon expressed his disbelief, stating, "I couldn't believe my ears." The controversy escalated as criticism mounted against Kim's statement.

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I couldn't believe my ears.

Sources indicate the clash began earlier in the session when Park questioned the appropriateness of Unification Minister Cho Myung-gyon's suggestion to refer to North Korea as the "Democratic People's Republic of Korea." Park challenged the minister, asking if such an action aligned with the fundamental order of the Republic of Korea's constitution.

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You people are those who shouted 'Long live Kim Il-sung.' Be careful.

Following the significant backlash and criticism, Kim Jun-hwan issued an apology, acknowledging that his words had inflicted "unforgivable pain" on a fellow member of parliament. The incident highlights the deep-seated political tensions and sensitivities surrounding North Korean issues within the South Korean legislature.

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I gave my fellow lawmaker unforgivable pain.