Opposition Slams Ruling Party's Nomination of DUI Convict Councilor

The Democratic Party has strongly condemned the People Power Party's decision to renominate Gyeonggi Provincial Councilor Lee Young-hee, who was involved in a drunk driving incident during her term. This nomination, according to the Democratic Party's Gyeonggi Provincial Committee spokesperson, is an affront to citizens and a blatant disregard for common sense and public safety.

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Drunk driving is a clear crime, and the responsibility of public officials is even heavier.

Lee Young-hee, a first-term councilor, was found to have a blood alcohol content of 0.103% after crashing her vehicle into a roadside tree in March 2024. This level is well above the threshold for license revocation. The incident led to a 30-day suspension from the provincial assembly and a public apology, as determined by the Assembly's Ethics Special Committee.

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Is it truly possible to nominate a current provincial councilor who threatened the lives of citizens again? This nomination does not meet the public's expectations at all.

The Democratic Party argues that nominating an individual convicted of drunk driving, especially a public official whose responsibility is paramount, is unacceptable. They view this decision not merely as an internal party matter but as a direct challenge to the integrity of the electoral process and an insult to the constituents of Yongin, particularly the first electoral district where Lee is running.

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This decision is not simply an personnel issue, but a political decision that directly denies the common sense and safety of Yongin citizens and an insult to all Yongin citizens.

From a South Korean perspective, drunk driving is a serious offense, and public officials are held to a higher standard. The swift condemnation by the opposition party reflects a societal expectation that those in power should embody exemplary conduct. The People Power Party's decision to proceed with the nomination, despite the controversy, raises questions about their commitment to ethical governance and public trust. The Democratic Party's demand for an immediate withdrawal and a responsible statement from the People Power Party underscores the gravity of the situation and the public's demand for accountability.

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We urge the immediate withdrawal of the nomination and a responsible statement from the People Power Party.