Internal disputes have erupted within the Democratic Party ahead of its upcoming convention, centering on allegations of involvement by the Shincheonji religious group. Kim Min-seok, a candidate for party leader, stated, "I have not referred to any specific individual," while supporters of Jung Cheong-rae criticized, "Why are you turning the party into an unconstitutional entity?" Former party leader Jung also warned that he would take legal action regarding the allegations against him.
On July 22, Kim held a press conference at the National Assembly, asserting, "I only pointed out the issue of Shincheonji's political interference, and I do not need to take responsibility for linking it to a specific candidate." This statement was made amid ongoing speculation that his recent comments about Shincheonji were aimed at Jung.
However, during a Supreme Council meeting that day, Jung's supporters continued to criticize Kim. Supreme Council member Moon Jeong-bok stated, "Do not insult the Democratic Party with baseless Shincheonji attacks," adding that the remarks of a prominent party leader had crossed a significant line. He demanded that Kim immediately present evidence to dispel the risks associated with the party convention.
They further argued, "To falsely associate our party with Shincheonji is a clear act of self-harm, reducing the Democratic Party to a status no different from the People Power Party, which is unconstitutional."
Supreme Council member Park Gyu-hwan questioned whether Shincheonji had interfered in last year's party leader election or the recent by-elections, or if it was involved in this year's local elections or the nominations for parliamentary by-elections.
He criticized the notion that the party is an unconstitutional entity that should be dissolved alongside the People Power Party, stating, "If this was merely a strategic comment, it is a clear act against the party."
Jung also shared an article related to the Shincheonji allegations on Facebook the previous day, stating, "Do you think absurd negativity will work? I will take legal action to ensure that those guilty are punished to the fullest extent of the law."
Meanwhile, Shincheonji expressed deep regret over Kim's comments linking the group to the party convention, stating, "We have no interest in the convention and have not engaged in any activities. To suggest involvement based solely on the existence of individual party members who are Shincheonji adherents is an infringement on the freedom of religion guaranteed by the constitution."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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