Byungdo Han on “Shincheonji Political Intervention”: “Ruling and Opposition Parties Must Meet After Party Convention”

Proposes Establishing Transparent Systems
with the Ministry of Interior and Safety and the National Election Commission

Byungdo Han, Acting Leader and Floor Leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, commented on July 29 regarding the "allegations of political intervention by Shincheonji" that have surfaced inside and outside the party, stating, "Once the party convention concludes, I propose that the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, the National Election Commission, and all relevant political parties join together to discuss systematic improvements and establish a more transparent system."

During the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly that day, Acting Leader Han said, "Recently, suspicions have been raised that Shincheonji members attempted to exert influence over the party's primary by collectively joining the party," adding the remarks above.

Byungdo Han, Acting Leader and Floor Leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is speaking at the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly on July 29, 2026. Photo by Hyunmin Kim

He emphasized, "Since the Joint Investigation Headquarters is investigating this matter, all suspicions must be uncovered swiftly and thoroughly," and further stressed, "We must neither exaggerate unverified suspicions to use them as political attacks nor take lightly the possibility of external forces intervening in the party primaries."

He also stated, "As the acting leader, I will meticulously manage every aspect of this party convention to ensure it is a fair and transparent election that fully reflects the will of the party members."

The Democratic Party is currently struggling with allegations of Shincheonji intervention ahead of its national convention. Party leader candidate Minseok Kim raised his voice during a joint speech, saying, "The essence of this party convention is to break the secret alliance of anti-Myung, divisionists, and Shincheonji." On July 27, he further proposed on social media, "I suggest to Acting Leader and Floor Leader Byungdo Han that we declare a '30-day voluntary clean-up period for dual party membership and involuntary party entries,' and grant immunity to those who comply voluntarily."

On the other hand, the pro-Cheong (pro-Jeong Cheongrae) faction has criticized these claims as unfounded. Candidate for party leader Cheongrae Jeong said in an interview with CBS Radio that day, "Ultimately, it is an attack on the party and its members," adding, "It is extremely inappropriate and deserves an apology."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.