Ruling Party Leadership Vows Legal Action Over Release of Recording of Jang Dong-hyuk's Private Profanity

A transcript of remarks containing profanity made by Rep. Jang Dong-hyuk, leader of the People Power Party, in a private setting in July of last year was released on the 21st through conservative-leaning YouTube channels. The channels, 'Sin-ui Hansu' and 'Hong Cheol-gi TV,' published a recording of a person believed to be Jang discussing primary election strategy in a private conversation in July last year, ahead of the party leadership race. The recording reportedly contained derogatory remarks and profanity directed at specific individuals.

In response, the party leader's office said it would take legal action against those who released the recording, including criminal complaints and civil claims for damages. In a statement issued to the press corps, the office expressed "deep regret that a recording of a private conversation has been made public and that some media outlets have reported on it."

It added, "If it is confirmed that a third party recorded the conversation without the consent of those involved, this could constitute violations of laws such as the Communications Secrets Protection Act," and stated, "We plan to verify how the recording was obtained and disseminated and take necessary legal measures, including filing criminal complaints and seeking civil damages." The office also said it was considering responses to related media coverage, such as requesting mediation from the Press Arbitration Commission.