Political Burden Acknowledged with First Expression of Regret… However, "Not an Apology for the Coup Itself"

Kim Moon-soo, the presidential candidate of the People Power Party, effectively made his first expression of regret regarding the emergency martial law on December 3. However, Kim's camp clarified that "this is not an apology for the martial law itself."

On the 12th, Kim appeared on Channel A's 'News A' and stated, "I sincerely apologize to the citizens suffering from the repercussions of the martial law." He added, "The citizens are facing significant hardships. This affects not only domestic politics but also exports, diplomacy, and overall circumstances."

Some interpreted Kim's remarks as his first acknowledgment of responsibility concerning the martial law, but his camp immediately clarified, "This is merely an apology as a politician for the discomfort of the citizens; it is not an apology regarding the martial law measures themselves."

Kim emphasized that he did not attend the Cabinet meeting related to the emergency martial law, stating, "Even if I had attended, I would not have supported the martial law." He then asserted, "Democracy is achieved through dialogue, compromise, and patience, not through martial law."

"We Must Unite with Lee Jun-seok… There’s No Reason to Go Separately"

He also expressed his stance on the possibility of unifying with Lee Jun-seok, the candidate of the Reformist Party. Kim stated, "Lee Jun-seok has served as the leader of our party. Our policies are not that different," and added, "It is very regrettable that he has left our party."

He said, "Lee Jae-myung becoming president is something Lee Jun-seok certainly does not want," emphasizing, "There is no reason for us to go our separate ways. We must unite to win."

He continued, "I regret the circumstances that led Lee Jun-seok to leave the party. If we meet, I will look back on the past and do my best to talk things through so we can walk together again,” expressing his willingness for unity.

"I Don’t Lie… I Am Different from Lee Jae-myung"

Kim also made a clear distinction between himself and Lee Jae-myung, the candidate from the Democratic Party. He stated, "I do not lie and only speak the truth. I have never pretended to be a prosecutor or a bachelor."

He further commented, "While I have developed many new towns, there has been no wrongdoing or corruption like in the Daejang-dong case. I have never had a close associate die under suspicious circumstances, nor have I tried to forcibly admit my brother to a psychiatric hospital or insult my sister-in-law."

In conclusion, Kim stated, "I will work hard in the election campaign in multiple areas and do my utmost to build a big tent to ensure victory."

Image Source: Kim Moon-soo Candidate / News1, News1