`Ex-prime minister’s trial` in the eyes of 33-year-old innovation member

The entire 13 justices of the Supreme Court found former Prime Minister Han Myeong-sook guilty of taking some 900 million Korean won (approx. 752,328 U.S. dollars) in bribes. “The trial went wrong and I’m innocent,” claimed Han. Let’s suppose for a moment that she is trying to save the face to her families and acquaintances regardless of her guilty or not guilty. Still, it is hard to understand that lawmakers in New Politics Alliance for Democracy (NPAD), the party Han belongs to, argue it is “new suppression on public safety.” Opposition party leader Moon Jae-in said, “This is the case that demonstrated the judiciary that should be on the nation’s side is in fact sided with the power and injustice.”

Innovation member Lee Dong-hak in the same NPAD differs. “Even though our party comes to power, we cannot change the verdict of courts at will. The ruling must always be respected,” said Lee. “The party should make close examinations where the nation’s criteria lie and, accordingly, make proper response.” Where would the general public be sided with between the verdict of 13 justices and former Prime Minister Han? NPAD lawmakers appear to be utterly distant from the general public.

The same applies to labor reform. As street banners that say “My father will be paid less for me to get employed?” show, the NPAD incites the anger of the youth, opposing the salary peak system. Lee, however, said “While payment of senior salary workers is important, the quality and opportunities of labor for the marginalized majority is far more important.” As for universal welfare, he noted that thorough review should be made on the scope that the nation could financially bear and its sustainability. To the 386 generation in the party, the 33-year-old politician didn’t hesitate to make bitter criticism by saying that they have taken away the opportunity ladder from the next generation in the party.

Born in 1982, Lee joined the opposition party at the age of 21. Other than that, he has made few eye-catching political performances. He spent his youth in working as a part timer and street vendor and barely finished his college. What he has in his mind is far closer to what the general public believes. He is different from half-fledged youth-representing lawmaker in the party who make a scene. Han and Moon are advised to stop insulting the judiciary branch with their half-baked logic that can’t persuade even Lee Dong-hak.

jinnyong@donga.com