The Democratic Party attempted to quell internal strife on November 6 as leader Kim Min-seok officially apologized for recent controversies surrounding allegations of Shinchonji membership within the party. However, members of the pro-Chung-rae faction expressed their dissatisfaction, indicating that factional conflicts within the party are likely to persist.
During the Supreme Council meeting held that morning, Kim publicly addressed the Shinchonji allegations he raised during the August 17 party convention.
Kim stated, "At the last convention, I expressed strong concerns and warnings about the political involvement of religion. I apologize to all those who were hurt during this process and to party members who love our party. Moving forward, we will focus on resolving the issues raised through self-purification efforts and institutional improvements, as well as on party unity and livelihood matters."
Despite Kim's apology, members of the pro-Chung-rae faction continued their criticism. With the party set to begin reviewing the findings of a task force investigating the Shinchonji allegations involving lawmakers and local committee chairs, these members pressured Kim to disclose the party membership list.
Supreme Council member Choi Min-hee demanded an apology directed at former leader Jeong Chung-rae, stating, "The person receiving the apology must feel emotionally at ease to accept it. The membership list should also be made available to party members after lawmakers review it and determine there are no significant issues, ensuring their right to know."
Another Supreme Council member, Lee Sung-yoon, emphasized, "I have repeatedly stated that the task force's findings regarding the timing of Shinchonji's membership and the organizational nature of the enrollments must be fully disclosed to party members. Was there any basis for the claims of a secret alliance involving anti-establishment, divisive, and Shinchonji elements that Kim raised during the convention?"
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.