The Democratic Party is facing a series of challenges, including ongoing controversies surrounding Yong Hye-in, the nominee for Minister of Gender Equality and Family, and allegations of a secret merger pact with the Innovation Party. Notably, party leader Kim Min-seok acknowledged the concerns, stating, "I am aware that there are many worries and criticisms. We are deeply considering this matter."
On September 3, the Democratic Party voiced its stance regarding Yong, who was selected for the second-term cabinet under President Lee Jae-myung. Even within the pro-Lee faction, there are public objections to Yong, indicating deepening internal conflicts.
During an appearance on the Democratic Party's program 'Minty07,' Kim responded to a question about his views on Yong, saying, "I know there are many concerns and criticisms. I am contemplating this seriously." This marks a rare instance of Kim, a close ally of President Lee, expressing public concern about Yong.
Additionally, lawmakers Song Young-gil and Yoon Geon-young commented on the situation during separate radio appearances, stating that Yong lacks appeal to the younger generation and that her decision to hold dual roles as a proportional representative is disappointing.
Park Sun-won, a member of the party's leadership, also called for Yong to resign from her parliamentary position on September 1. Park stated, "If she has become a nominee for Minister of Gender Equality and Family, she should seriously consider resigning from her position as a proportional representative."
Compounding these issues is the recent controversy over the alleged merger pact with the Innovation Party. While Kim emphasized that the decision on the merger is still undecided, the Innovation Party has insisted that a clear understanding of the facts is necessary.
Kim asserted that while collaboration with the Innovation Party is essential, the merger decision has not been made, urging restraint in comments that could hinder the process. This statement comes after Park Beom-gye, head of the party's integration promotion team, mentioned that discussions were taking place between lawmakers Lee Hae-sik and Jeong Chun-sang, prompting a backlash from the Innovation Party, which claimed the information was inaccurate.
Despite Kim's reassurances, the Innovation Party has expressed discomfort. Spokesperson Im Myung-hee stated after a meeting of the party's leadership that integration and collaboration are separate issues, criticizing the Democratic Party for unilaterally pushing for integration without clarifying its position. Im also urged caution regarding Park's previous comments, highlighting a pattern of making statements to the media without verifying the facts.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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