Jang Dong-hyuk, the leader of the People Power Party, criticized the film 'Assassins,' which deals with the assassination of Yuk Young-soo, stating it undermines the legitimacy of South Korea. He accused the Democratic Party of using historical facts for political gain.
Jang made these remarks during a press conference on October 5 at the birthplace of Yuk Young-soo in Okcheon, Chungbuk Province.
He stated, "To impose unverified allegations on the deceased and their families, distorting historical facts, goes beyond the bounds of free expression." He added, "The left has attempted to distort certain individuals and events while sanctifying others."
Jang described this as a malicious intent to politically exploit history, asserting, "Films that distort history have been continuously produced by the left, especially during politically significant moments or elections."
He further claimed, "The left's attempts to defame former Presidents Syngman Rhee and Park Chung-hee deny the founding and industrialization of South Korea, undermining the country's legitimacy. 'Assassins' is a film that remains at that level."
Jang warned that allowing such historical distortions could ultimately threaten liberal democracy, urging citizens to resist attempts to gain political advantage through historical manipulation.
In response to a related post by Democratic Party leader Kim Min-seok on Facebook, Jang remarked, "I would rather return that to the Democratic Party members." Kim had quoted a biblical phrase, saying, "Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's," and added that films belong to filmmakers, evaluations belong to audiences, and politicians should focus on people's livelihoods.
Jang also criticized the Democratic Party, stating, "Historical facts should be criticized with the same standards," and accused them of silencing the public by threatening punishment for any scrutiny of specific individuals and events.
He concluded, "Preventing discussion on clear historical distortions is another form of framing, and the public will not tolerate attempts to silence them on evident historical inaccuracies."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.