Han Dong-hoon dismisses impeachment responsibility claims: "I believe I did my job"

Han Dong-hoon dismisses responsibility and resignation claims

"Encouraging impeachment approval? I have no regrets"

Han Dong-hoon, leader of the People Power Party, addressed the responsibility claims and resignation pressures following the approval of the impeachment motion against President Yoon Seok-youl on the 14th, stating, "Impeachment approval was inevitable to promptly suspend the president's duties and quickly restore the situation to normal," and "Therefore, I believe I did my job."

Han, speaking to reporters after leaving the ongoing party parliamentary meeting at the National Assembly, dismissed questions about his resignation by stating, "I will continue to perform my duties," reiterating his stance. When asked if he regrets encouraging the approval among lawmakers, he replied, "I judged that the suspension of the president's duties was urgently needed. Throughout the process, I only thought about the country and the people. I have no regrets."

Regarding the atmosphere of the parliamentary meeting, Han said, "It was quite heated, with various criticisms, and many told me to 'take responsibility and resign,'" adding, "However, I have been striving to resolve this serious illegal martial law situation while minimizing harm to the public. Therefore, although I seriously considered early resignation and orderly withdrawal, it was thwarted as the president did not keep his promise."

Regarding the impeachment approval, Han stated, "I take today's result very seriously," and added, "As the leader of the ruling party, I promise to correct mistakes with the people and protect the constitution and democracy."

Hong Min-seong, Hankyung.com reporter mshong@hankyung.com