Suh Beomsu Apologizes Directly to "Roundhouse Kick" Victim... Takes Heavy Responsibility Over Supplemental Investigation Rights

Beomsoo Seo, a member of the People Power Party, commented on August 5 regarding his controversial remarks made during a panel discussion attended by the victim of the so-called "Busan roundhouse kick incident," stating, "I spoke with the victim over the phone and offered a personal apology for my comments," and added, "The victim asked that we ensure the public is properly informed about the issue of supplementary investigation authority. That request made me feel an even greater sense of responsibility."

Yonhap News Agency

On the same day, Representative Seo wrote on social media, "In order to ensure that no more victims are unjustly silenced and denied justice during the police investigation stage, I will work swiftly to raise awareness about the problems of abolishing the right to supplementary investigations and to pursue alternative measures and supplementary legislation."

Earlier, Representative Seo had attended an emergency panel discussion on the abolition of prosecutors' supplementary investigation authority, which was also attended by Independent Representative Donghun Han and the victim of the Busan roundhouse kick incident. During a conversation with his fellow party member Jongo Jin, Representative Seo made an inappropriate comment related to the "roundhouse kick," sparking controversy.

As the situation escalated, Representative Seo stated the previous day, "I will not make any excuses. This was entirely my fault," and continued, "I sincerely apologize to the victim and their family." Representative Jin also said, "This incident has made me reflect more deeply on the pain of victims and reminded me of the weight carried by the words of public figures."

However, the inappropriate remarks made by the two lawmakers, both classified as non-mainstream members within the party, are causing subtle repercussions. There are some predictions that civic groups outside the party may request disciplinary action from the party’s Central Ethics Committee.

Choi Sujin, Senior Spokesperson for the People Power Party's parliamentary group, told reporters that day, "The remarks in question were inappropriate, and while I understand that Representative Seo has apologized, what matters is making sure the public is convinced," adding, "As we are currently fighting against government initiatives to amend the Criminal Procedure Act, I hope our members will exercise restraint."

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