Pro-Democracy candidates Choi Min-hee, Han Min-soo, and Lee Sung-yoon held a press conference on August 13, urging party leadership candidate Kim Min-seok to provide evidence for his claims of a "secret alliance" involving anti-establishment factions and the Shincheonji religious group. They also called for a public apology regarding issues related to party departures, the merger with the Justice Party, and the timing of the handling of investigative powers.
During the emergency press conference at the National Assembly, the candidates stated, "Kim claims that the essence of this party convention is to dismantle the secret alliance of anti-establishment, divisive, and Shincheonji factions. However, he suddenly changed his stance, saying we must support President Lee Jae-myung's governance." They emphasized that while there may be multiple aspects to the convention, Kim must substantiate his allegations regarding the supposed alliance.
They also demanded explanations from Kim regarding his past controversies, including his departure from the party in 2002, the merger with the Justice Party, and the timing of communications with lawmakers Lee Un-joo and Kang Deuk-gu about the alleged messages. Choi pointed out that Kim's departure statement at the time did not include any intention to return, stating, "This highlights his past betrayal. He should honestly acknowledge his mistakes and reflect on them." Choi further pressed for the disclosure of the individual mentioned in the Telegram messages discussing the merger and the identity of the prime minister referenced in Kang's Facebook posts.
Han questioned Kim's assertion that the government requested the party to abolish investigative powers in April and then demanded action in May, asking, "Who exactly was told to handle this by May? Did you send the bill and then make these claims? We need an honest party leader."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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