Devotion to Political Reform

On September 17, 2002, independent Congressman Chong Mong-jun officially announced his campaigning for the December presidential election by saying, “I could not deny the calling for me. I think I have to realize the political reform in this country. So far, we have just given the lip-service to it. That’s why I decided to run for presidency.”

On Sep. 17, Rep. Chong held an “announcement ceremony” at the conference room in the Center of Representatives and said, “We have to reform the current system so that the common sense can be the dominant force in politics. We don’t need the inefficiency and corruption any more. The politics I pursue is the one that is based on common sense, not on regional hatred against people of other regions. What I pursue is a politics under which all citizens can harmonize with each other, a politics aiming not at the past, but at the future, and a politics that is not determined by a person, but reflects all the voices in society.”

He also promised, “I will form a new party with people who have the same goals as mine. But the new party will be run by supporting citizens and volunteers. I will abide by each and every law out there regulating campaigning, and will not wage a negative campaigning.”

Regarding the disposal of his shares of Hyundai Industries Co., where he is the biggest shareholder (11% of all shares issued, or amounting to 180 billion won), he said, “I have selected a bank which is renowned for its trustworthiness and clean operation. Then I decided to entrust all of my rights including the voting rights to it and have given it all the necessary authorities so that it can operate it independent of me during the campaigning and the time I may remain in office.”

He added, “”I have directed the bank to donate, without any consultation with me, all the profits generated during the period to a charity organization I have chosen. I have also resigned my advisorship of Hyundai.”

Sung-Won Park swpark@donga.com