Kim Gi-Hyeon People Power Party Head Accuses Opposition of Fraternizing With China
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Loading... - Unella Thongsuk
- 15 Jun 2023
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Rep. Kim Gi-hyeon, the leader of the People Power Party, has criticized members of the opposition Democratic Party of Korea for their recent visit to China. The visit took place during a sensitive diplomatic period and has raised concerns about their close relationship with Beijing, particularly in light of Chinese envoy Xing Haiming's criticism of South Korean leader Yoon Suk Yeol.
Kim Gi-hyeon expressed his disapproval of the seven Democratic Party lawmakers' trip, stating that it occurred at a diplomatically sensitive time. He accused them of aligning themselves with Beijing while Xing Haiming blamed the Yoon administration for the deterioration of relations between South Korea and China. Furthermore, Kim called on the lawmakers to clarify the financing of their trip, citing reports that suggested China had partially covered the expenses.
During a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, President Yoon criticized the inappropriate behavior of the Chinese envoy, describing it as offensive to the South Korean people. Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Chang Ho-jin summoned Xing Haiming and strongly condemned his remarks as untrue and unforgivable, urging a response from Beijing.
Responding to the reactions in Seoul, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wengbin accused the South Korean media of spreading false reports that amounted to personal attacks on Xing Haiming. Wang made these comments during a press conference on Tuesday, defending Xing's engagement with various individuals, including South Korean opposition chief Rep. Lee Jae-myung, as part of his diplomatic responsibilities in Seoul.
During a dinner event on June 8, Xing Haiming stated that the strained relationship between South Korea and China was not Beijing's fault. This statement was perceived as a slight against President Yoon's efforts to strengthen Korea's alliance with the US and Japan. Xing also cautioned against Seoul's decision to oppose China in its rivalry with the US.
In response, Rep. Lee Jae-myung expressed similar sentiments at the event, acknowledging the recent weakening of ties between South Korea and China. He also emphasized that South Korea actively supports the "One China" principle, deviating from President Yoon's position. In an interview with Reuters in April, President Yoon stated that he considers Taiwan a global issue beyond the confines of China's domestic politics.
