Kim Young-joo: Yoo Si-min's 'ABC Theory' Obstructs Unity
Kim Young-joo, a lawmaker from the Democratic Party of Korea, warned that former Health and Welfare Minister Yoo Si-min's theory classifying supporters could lead to internal party division, recalling the past 'Nan-ning-gu, White Pants' controversy. Appearing on KBC's 'News Maker' on the 29th, Kim pointed out regarding former minister Yoo's 'ABC theory,' "Is there really a need to create elements of division and conflict with the ABC theory in the current Lee Jae-myung administration?" He added, "There's no particular need to do so." He recalled the 'Nan-ning-gu, White Pants' debate sparked by Minister Yoo Si-min during the Roh Moo-hyun administration, stating that the conflict between reformists and pragmatists at the time pushed the Uri Party into division and ultimately led to the failure to secure a second term for the administration.
Kim viewed Yoo Si-min's method of categorizing people as containing elements of division and conflict. He argued that a major political figure should use language that allows for broad solidarity, unity, and integration. Regardless of Yoo Si-min's intentions, Kim emphasized that his remarks could have a negative impact by exacerbating division and conflict between the Democratic Party and Lee Jae-myung's supporters. He added that such division and conflict are what forces wishing for the failure of the Lee Jae-myung administration desire, and there is no need for the Democratic Party to fall into such 'divisive tactics'.
Kim argued that solidarity, unity, and integration are necessary for the landslide victory in the June 3rd local elections and the success of President Lee Jae-myung. He stated that the 'New Lee Jae-myung' phenomenon, where President Lee's support base has expanded, should be viewed positively. Kim suggested that rather than seeing this as a competition or conflict between factions, it is necessary to acknowledge differences and unite to move forward together in a rich and encompassing way.
Kim cited the example of the Roh Moo-hyun administration facing difficulties due to debates over reform and pragmatism, stressing that bringing such issues into political debate or conflict at the current juncture is inappropriate. He concluded that while acknowledging each other's differences, it is essential to move forward together with the recognition that "we are members of the Lee Jae-myung administration."