People Power Party lawmakers clash over disciplinary action for Kwon Young-se: 'Hold him accountable' vs. 'Give him a chance'

A heated debate erupted within South Korea's People Power Party on July 28 over disciplinary measures for lawmaker Kwon Young-se. The party's central ethics committee initiated disciplinary proceedings against Kwon, who reportedly assaulted the party's floor leader, Chung Jin-suk, in protest of committee assignments.

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Violence against the party's floor leader in the National Assembly cannot be tolerated with leniency simply because we are comrades.

Lawmaker Yoo Young-ha strongly advocated for severe punishment, stating, "Violence against the party's floor leader in the National Assembly cannot be tolerated with leniency simply because we are comrades." He warned that failing to hold individuals accountable for such actions would lead to the party's demise, comparing it to rotten eggs spoiling a healthy nest.

Conversely, lawmaker Cho Eun-hee urged a more forgiving stance. "Discipline should not be the ultimate goal," she argued. "If the party's true intention is not to expel someone despite their sincere apology, then we should offer a chance to move forward together." Cho emphasized the importance of balancing principles with an inclusive spirit, hoping for a party that opens its doors to the future.

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The nest must not be broken, or all the eggs inside will break. If the eggs inside the nest rot, the remaining healthy eggs will also rot.

Floor leader Chung Jin-suk intervened to mediate the conflicting views. He reminded lawmakers to study the party's constitution and bylaws, noting that the party's internal rules govern the functions of the floor leaders' meeting. Chung suggested that while political opinions can be expressed through various channels like social media or press conferences, internal party matters should be handled according to established procedures.

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Discipline should not be the ultimate goal. 'You did wrong, so no matter how much you apologize, we will expel you. Leave on your own. Otherwise, we will expel you.' This is not our party's true intention.

Following the meeting, interim floor leader spokesperson Choi Soo-jin told reporters that no specific discussion on Kwon's disciplinary action took place during the closed-door session. The People Power Party's supreme council had previously recommended Kwon's voluntary withdrawal from the party on July 27.

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We should give a chance to move forward together when there is sincere reflection and apology, even though there are consequences for wrongdoing. I earnestly hope for a party that upholds principles while not losing its spirit of inclusion, a responsible party that opens its heart and moves forward together.