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Lee and Han face an angry nation
June 07, 2008
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For more than two hours, Han was in the hot seat as student government heads from 31 universities, including Korea, Dankook and Yonsei, told him they were scared when riot police turned their water canons on those protesting the Lee administration’s beef deal in downtown Seoul. Students also demanded the resignation of the head of the National Police Agency for the “excessive measures to quell the protests.” “Korea is a democratic country and we allow protests to be held, but only under the condition that they stay within legal boundaries,” Han said. “The protesters jumped into the streets, causing a forceful response.” “It is unfortunate that people got hurt while they were grappling with each other,” Han said. “But police were hurt too. We hope that further protests will be held peacefully.” Han also explained that Korea did not give up its meat inspection rights to the United States. In his speech, President Lee made a strong call for national unity, telling the nation that he needs help. As fewer than one of five Koreans now support his administration due to several blunders, including his mishandling of personnel matters and the U.S. beef deal, Lee has been postponing meeting the public for an open discussion that his office had initially promised to hold earlier in the week. “I will keep my head low, open my ears and listen to the voice of the people,” he said. By Lee Min-a Staff Reporter [mina@joongang.co.kr] |
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