Political Buzz Over Regionalism

The Grand National Party (GNP) demanded that Kim Song-jae, chief representative of policy planning at Chong Wa Dae (The Blue House), be removed from his post on May 26. Mr.Kim made the comments during an interview with a reporter from the 'Weekly Chosun.' Mr.Kim insisted that any regional antagonism or local favoritism present in the general election should be evaluated on an individual basis.

Kim alleged that, "Solidarity in Kyongsang province and Cholla province should not be viewed in the same manner." He continued,"Solidarity for the minority is justice, solidarity of the majority is injustice."

Kwon Chol-hyun, a spokesperson of the GNP, complained that Kim'c comments will only further aggravate regional antagonism.

However, Mr. Kim said,"It's a misunderstanding. I intended to demonstrate my desire for the Korean people to overcome regional antagonism." He added, "History is proof that the solidarity of black and white, employers and employees, men and women is never the same."

Jang Kwang-gun, a deputy spokesperson of the GNP, insinuated that the comments might have been made with the purpose of justifying an administration that does not reflect the will of the majority.

by Lee Sang-il