Hong Joon-pyo, the mayor of Daegu, stated on social media that “[Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party,] has been orchestrating the disruption of state affairs by attempting 29 impeachments and incapacitating government institutions, which constitutes treason.” He also criticized Lee for involving former anti-establishment legal professional Ma Eun-hyuk in judicial appointments.
Lee Jae-myung had earlier accused Choi Sang-mok, acting President and Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Planning and Finance, of dereliction of duty during a field executive committee meeting in Seoul’s Gwanghwamun, warning him of potential arrest as a current offender.
Furthermore, Hong criticized Lee for allegedly creating a spectacle by claiming assassination threats with a Russian-made handgun, comparing it to a “Trump-like show.” He advised Lee to “stop causing a commotion and just go to prison,” suggesting it would be the safest place for him.