PPP Lawmaker Bae Hyun-jin Referred to Ethics Committee for Criticizing Party Leader

The internal discord within the People's Power Party (PPP) has once again come to the fore, with Seoul City Council candidates filing a complaint against fellow lawmaker Bae Hyun-jin, referring her to the party's ethics committee. This action, taken just a day after party leader Jang Dong-hyuk warned of strong measures against 'acts detrimental to the party,' highlights a deep rift within the conservative camp as local elections loom.

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The Seoul City Party Chairperson, in a critical period before the local elections, has not stopped her criticism and mockery towards the party leader and the party leadership.

The complainants specifically cited Bae's critical posts on Facebook, including remarks like 'Jang Dong-hyuk lives so difficultly' and 'Even if Jesus came, it wouldn't work in the Seoul metropolitan area.' They argue that her persistent criticism and mockery of the party leadership, particularly in her capacity as the Seoul City Party Chairperson, have sown confusion among party members and abandoned her role in contributing to the party's victory in the upcoming local elections. The complaint alleges violations of party rules regarding member conduct and maintaining dignity.

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She has abandoned her role as Seoul City Party Chairperson, who should contribute to the victory of the local elections, and has caused confusion among party members.

This is not Bae Hyun-jin's first encounter with the party's disciplinary body. She was previously suspended for one year from party membership for posting a minor's photo on Facebook in response to a critical comment. However, that decision was later suspended by the Seoul Southern District Court in March, following a preliminary injunction filed by Bae against the PPP. This history suggests a pattern of contentious behavior and a willingness to challenge party directives, making her a polarizing figure within the PPP.

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Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk warned of strong measures against 'acts detrimental to the party.'

From the perspective of Hankyoreh, we view this internal conflict not merely as a political spat but as a reflection of broader issues within the PPP. While Western media might frame this as typical political infighting, we emphasize the implications for democratic accountability and the party's ability to present a united front. The public's trust is eroded when internal party struggles overshadow substantive policy debates. The unique Korean perspective here lies in the intense focus on party loyalty and the consequences of dissent, especially from prominent figures, in a political culture that often prioritizes party cohesion over individual expression. Bae's actions, and the party's reaction, speak volumes about the internal dynamics and power struggles that will undoubtedly shape the upcoming elections.

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Bae was previously suspended for one year from party membership for posting a minor's photo on Facebook.