An Cheol-soo, who is running for the leadership of the People Power Party, took the lead in criticizing President Lee Jae-myung on the occasion of the 72nd anniversary of the armistice agreement of the Korean War.

On the 27th, Representative An stated through a post on Facebook, "Today marks the 72nd anniversary of the armistice agreement of the Korean War and the day the UN forces joined," and expressed his deep gratitude to all the fallen patriots and veterans who defended free South Korea.

He continued by attacking, "However, President Lee Jae-myung of the Republic of Korea has said nothing."

An criticized, "North Korea claims today is the 'victory day against the United States' and Kim Jong-un visited the Friendly Tomb to commemorate the Chinese troops who participated in the Korean War," adding, "Is the President really considering commemorating the Chinese troops like Kim Jong-un? Please get a grip."

This attack came unexpectedly as President Lee had not made any statements related to the commemoration of the Chinese troops.

Concerns over Korea-US tariff negotiations… Criticism of An's remarks for 'misunderstanding'

Referring to the ongoing tariff negotiations between South Korea and the United States, An mentioned, "A tariff negotiation between Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yun-cheol and U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin is scheduled for the 31st," emphasizing that "this is a critical negotiation held the day before the deadline for mutual tariffs imposed by the U.S."

He pointed out, "A few days ago, the planned South Korea-U.S. 2+2 trade talks were called off, and National Security Office Director Wi Sung-lak returned without even a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio," adding, "While this could be a pressure strategy from the U.S., anyone can feel that the Korea-U.S. relationship is not what it used to be."

He noted, "There are no scheduled summit talks, and even practical negotiations are not progressing smoothly," stating, "This is very concerning. The President must properly handle the tariff negotiations."

Some have pointed out a 'misunderstanding of diplomacy and negotiation' regarding this issue. Criticism has emerged regarding the approach of attacking the 'own government' while the Trump administration, looking to gain an advantage in tariff negotiations, exerts pressure on South Korea as a relatively weaker nation.

Critical opinions regarding corporate tax increases

An warned, "If the negotiations end without results and corporate tax increases are pushed forward, it is no different from telling our companies to 'go out and die.'"

He reiterated, "I want to make it clear once again. The current situation poses risks to both national interests and security," urging, "Please, for the sake of national interest, get a grip."

Image source: An Cheol-soo, a member of the People Power Party / News1, News1