The government (conservative ruling party) has always supported big businesses, exports and real estate development.
Many Koreans have warned for decades that this was only enriching certain groups of people.
I know that the government dishes out money to big corporations, game companies, manufacturers and all sorts of business in the form of research or technical development, new product development grants. Yet, the government refuses to fund pre-school education.
I read an article today and it mentioned a very well written McKinsey report on Korea that explains the problems facing the Korean economy and the reasons.
Chosun Ilbo: Why Korea's Domestic Economy Is Crashing
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Tuesday, November 29, 2016
Two More Former Presidential Secretaries Accused Of Crimes
The Prosecutor's Office announced that they are investigating Kim Ki-chun, the former Chief Of Staff under President Park and Woo Byung-woo, the former Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs for abuse of power.
Both have denied any knowledge of the Choi Soon-sil and other scandals, but recent testimony by those under arrest and other eyewitnesses have indicated that they were also complicit in the crimes. Many expect that investigating the abuse of power allegations will lead to evidence of their guilt and alleged leading roles in the scandals.
Yonhap News: Ex-presidential chief of staff, aide under probe
The Hankyroreh: For illicit ‘donations’, Pres. Park used safe house
Everyone is saying that President Park is stalling for time. Before impeachment was likely, she seemed to take an impeach me, if you can stance. Now that impeachment is near, all of a sudden, she makes an address, but does not state that she will step down. She implies she will step down, if the ruling and opposition parties can come to agreement on her departure. Also she added "legal" ways to step down. The ruling party hardliners are known for making outrageous and impossible demands. The only legal way to step down is resign or impeachment. She still hasn't resigned, so the only "legal" way is impeachment.
The ruling party moderates say that both sides should try to come to an agreement, but if they cannot, then they will agree to a vote on impeachment on Dec. 9.
The opposition say that they will push for a vote on Dec. 2, if possible.
Both have denied any knowledge of the Choi Soon-sil and other scandals, but recent testimony by those under arrest and other eyewitnesses have indicated that they were also complicit in the crimes. Many expect that investigating the abuse of power allegations will lead to evidence of their guilt and alleged leading roles in the scandals.
Yonhap News: Ex-presidential chief of staff, aide under probe
The Hankyroreh: For illicit ‘donations’, Pres. Park used safe house
Everyone is saying that President Park is stalling for time. Before impeachment was likely, she seemed to take an impeach me, if you can stance. Now that impeachment is near, all of a sudden, she makes an address, but does not state that she will step down. She implies she will step down, if the ruling and opposition parties can come to agreement on her departure. Also she added "legal" ways to step down. The ruling party hardliners are known for making outrageous and impossible demands. The only legal way to step down is resign or impeachment. She still hasn't resigned, so the only "legal" way is impeachment.
The ruling party moderates say that both sides should try to come to an agreement, but if they cannot, then they will agree to a vote on impeachment on Dec. 9.
The opposition say that they will push for a vote on Dec. 2, if possible.
Monday, November 28, 2016
President Park's Addresses The Nation
The speech is scheduled to start at 2:30 pm.
She said that she only worked for the nation, is not greedy or money grabbing, thought that the sports and cultural foundations were honest, and that she only was guilty of trusting her acquaintances.
She also said that she would place her future in the hands of the National Assembly and will do as they suggest to ensure a smooth transition to the next elected President.
The Assembly will probably name a new Prime Minister to act in the interim and President Park will have no powers. Then they will set a timeline for her departure, many propose April of next year.
Korea Herald: Park says she will give up presidency
Korea Times: PRESIDENT SAYS 'I WILL FOLLOW ASSEMBLY'S DECISION'
JTBC News: Complete Transcript Of President's Address In Korean
Korea Times: English Translation Of President's Address
JTBC News are the ones who found the laptop that launched the search warrants.
AP News: South Korean leader says she'll resign after lawmakers act
Korea Herald: Park says she will give up presidency
Korea Times: PRESIDENT SAYS 'I WILL FOLLOW ASSEMBLY'S DECISION'
JTBC News: Complete Transcript Of President's Address In Korean
Korea Times: English Translation Of President's Address
JTBC News are the ones who found the laptop that launched the search warrants.
AP News: South Korean leader says she'll resign after lawmakers act
All the opposition parties state that they will carry on with the impeachment process. The ruling party hardliners are calling for a stop to the impeachment process. The ruling party moderates, who have the casting vote to push the impeachment through, is having a meeting.
Opposition parties expect the ruling party hardliners to be extremely uncooperative and are very wary from past experience.
The ruling party moderates might still ask for impeachment.
Labor Unions announced that they will go on a four hour strike as planned and the Saturday protest organizers confirm that the protests planned for Saturday will also go on as scheduled.
Most Koreans interviewed on TV were not satisfied with Park's apology and some say that you can't just say you're sorry for committing crimes, you have to do the time.
I continually underestimate the anger among Koreans. There are a lot of problems.
Most Koreans interviewed on TV were not satisfied with Park's apology and some say that you can't just say you're sorry for committing crimes, you have to do the time.
I continually underestimate the anger among Koreans. There are a lot of problems.
Sunday, November 27, 2016
Jesus And Fragrant Hemp
In the Old Testament and New Testament, it is mentioned that Jesus used cannabis.
In the original texts, it was written as Kaneh-bosm (hemp-fragrant) which means cannabis in Aramaic. Nine pounds of Kaneh-bosm flowers, olive oil, cinnamon, myrrh, and other spices were mixed to make the anointing oil for Jesus.
Also, according to archaeological evidence, cannabis was widely eaten and smoked as well around the time of Jesus.
If you look at all the slight misinterpretation of certain words in the Bible over the centuries, you can find some alternative interpretations, if you feel the need to resolve conflicts with your faith or knowledge.
In the original texts, it was written as Kaneh-bosm (hemp-fragrant) which means cannabis in Aramaic. Nine pounds of Kaneh-bosm flowers, olive oil, cinnamon, myrrh, and other spices were mixed to make the anointing oil for Jesus.
Also, according to archaeological evidence, cannabis was widely eaten and smoked as well around the time of Jesus.
If you look at all the slight misinterpretation of certain words in the Bible over the centuries, you can find some alternative interpretations, if you feel the need to resolve conflicts with your faith or knowledge.
If it helps epileptics, people in pain, cramps and other illnesses, how can they say that it has no medical value?
Merry Jane: Did Jesus Use Marijuana to Perform Miracles?
Saturday, November 26, 2016
President Park Named Conspirator In More Crimes
Cha Eun-taek and Song Seong-gak were indicted today on charges of attempted coercion, coercion, abuse of power, embezzlement and influence peddling.
Cha Eun-taek worked closely with Choi Soon-sil, ex-Presidential Secretary Ahn Jong-bom to try to control the sports and culture industries.
President Park is alleged to have conspired to coerced Korea Telecom into giving millions of dollars in advertising to companies owned by Cha Eun-taek. She also ordered KT to employ two acquaintances of Choi Soon-sil. Then, she ordered KT to change the two employees positions, so that they could be in charge of advertising.
President Park is also accused of conspiring in the attempted take over of Poreka (an advertising company recently sold by POSCO under suspicious circumstances). She is supposed to have ordered to her aide to make sure that no big business groups won the bid to purchase Poreka, in an attempt to have a Cha Eun-taek company win the bid. It failed and another company won the bid. So, they tried to take over that company.
Song Seong-gak is the former head of the Korea Creative Content Agency and is accused of threatening to close down the new owner of Poreka, if the new owner did not sell 80% of the shares to Cha Eun-tae. The phone call was recorded by the new owner.
Korea Times: Prosecutors label President Park 'incompetent'
Korea Herald: Cha Eun-taek Faces Multiple Charges
Korea Times: More accusations made against President
Cha Eun-taek worked closely with Choi Soon-sil, ex-Presidential Secretary Ahn Jong-bom to try to control the sports and culture industries.
President Park is alleged to have conspired to coerced Korea Telecom into giving millions of dollars in advertising to companies owned by Cha Eun-taek. She also ordered KT to employ two acquaintances of Choi Soon-sil. Then, she ordered KT to change the two employees positions, so that they could be in charge of advertising.
President Park is also accused of conspiring in the attempted take over of Poreka (an advertising company recently sold by POSCO under suspicious circumstances). She is supposed to have ordered to her aide to make sure that no big business groups won the bid to purchase Poreka, in an attempt to have a Cha Eun-taek company win the bid. It failed and another company won the bid. So, they tried to take over that company.
Korea Herald: Cha Eun-taek Faces Multiple Charges
Korea Times: More accusations made against President
5th Week of Anti-Park Protests In Seoul
Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators braved freezing temperatures and rain to demand that President Park step down.
The protests started at 1 pm. and should last well past midnight. Even though it rained from early afternoon and forecasts called for more intermittent rain, over 1.5 million are expected to participate in Seoul and 500,000 in other cities.
Seoul Metro Government asked buildings to open their restrooms, set up outdoor toilets, increased subway trains and buses in preparation for the demonstrations.
The Korea Herald: 1.9 million take to streets (Great pictures from 1 pm to 10:30 pm)
The protests started at 1 pm. and should last well past midnight. Even though it rained from early afternoon and forecasts called for more intermittent rain, over 1.5 million are expected to participate in Seoul and 500,000 in other cities.
Seoul Metro Government asked buildings to open their restrooms, set up outdoor toilets, increased subway trains and buses in preparation for the demonstrations.
 |
| Around 6 pm |
Sejong Cultural Center at 8 pm
Kwangwha Mun at 9 pm
Several blocks away at Jongro 2nd Street around 10 pm
The demonstrations were spread out over several square kilometers with many people marching up and down the streets. In addition to several big stages for performers and speeches in Kwangwha Mun and Seoul City Hall, there were also several smaller stages along the side streets.
The organizers estimated 1.5 million attended throughout the day in Seoul and another 400,000 in other cities. Turnout was lower than expected due to snow and rain in the early afternoon and freezing temperatures.
The Korea Herald: 1.9 million take to streets (Great pictures from 1 pm to 10:30 pm)
Friday, November 25, 2016
US State Department Slams President Park's Push For Standardized History
The ruling party which had the majority in the National Assembly and President Park rammed a measure to standardize Korean History and use only a government approved textbook to teach Korean history. The opposition parties, most professors and teachers were against the move.
Many suspected that Park was trying to change references to her father's presidency to paint a much rosier picture.
Chosun Ilbo: U.S. Rights Report Slams Korea's Official History Textbooks
Korea Times: Like Dictator Father, President Park: No Remorse
Many suspected that Park was trying to change references to her father's presidency to paint a much rosier picture.
Chosun Ilbo: U.S. Rights Report Slams Korea's Official History Textbooks
Korea Times: Like Dictator Father, President Park: No Remorse
Another Possible Bribery Case Against President Park
About every five years, I think, the Korean Customs Office reviews and awards the licenses for duty free shops in Seoul. After the duty free licenses were awarded to five companies this year, the government announced that it would award more licenses and were accepting applications. The five companies that were previously awarded licenses strongly complained about the added competition considering most of the new duty free shops were operation at a loss.
Prosecutors have found it suspicious that President Park met with the Chairmen of Lotte and SKT, both of which had lost duty free licenses this year. Lotte won a license for their main shop in the center of Seoul, but lost the license for their other shop at Lotte World. SKT had lost the license for their shop at Walker Hill Hotel.
A few weeks after the meeting, the government announced that more duty free licenses would be issued. Choi Soon-sil and Presidential Secretaries called on Lotte and SKT and requested that several million dollars in donations be made to two sports foundations controlled by Choi Soon-sil through board members appointed by her.
SKT said that they could not donate any more money. Lotte donated 7 billion won, but had it returned the day before a search warrant was carried out at Lotte.
The prosecutors just carried out additional search warrants at Lotte, SKT, Korean Customs Office and the Ministry of Planning and Budget in order to find evidence of influence peddling and the more serious charge of bribery against President Park.
Yesterday, prosecutors found evidence that ex-Senior Secretary for Civil (domestic) Affairs, Woo Byung-woo had received reports on ex-Presidential Secretary Ahn Jong-bom regarding influence peddling and coercion, but ignored them. They are looking into other allegations and many expect that Woo Byung-woo will be arrested soon.
Korea Herald: Prosecution trying to prove Park’s bribery charges
Prosecutors have found it suspicious that President Park met with the Chairmen of Lotte and SKT, both of which had lost duty free licenses this year. Lotte won a license for their main shop in the center of Seoul, but lost the license for their other shop at Lotte World. SKT had lost the license for their shop at Walker Hill Hotel.
A few weeks after the meeting, the government announced that more duty free licenses would be issued. Choi Soon-sil and Presidential Secretaries called on Lotte and SKT and requested that several million dollars in donations be made to two sports foundations controlled by Choi Soon-sil through board members appointed by her.
SKT said that they could not donate any more money. Lotte donated 7 billion won, but had it returned the day before a search warrant was carried out at Lotte.
The prosecutors just carried out additional search warrants at Lotte, SKT, Korean Customs Office and the Ministry of Planning and Budget in order to find evidence of influence peddling and the more serious charge of bribery against President Park.
Yesterday, prosecutors found evidence that ex-Senior Secretary for Civil (domestic) Affairs, Woo Byung-woo had received reports on ex-Presidential Secretary Ahn Jong-bom regarding influence peddling and coercion, but ignored them. They are looking into other allegations and many expect that Woo Byung-woo will be arrested soon.
Korea Herald: Prosecution trying to prove Park’s bribery charges
Thursday, November 24, 2016
Ruling Party Approval Drops To 12%, President 4%
The Saenuri Party's approval rating has drop by more than half from 35% to 12% and members have finally started to call for President Park's impeachment despite strong opposition from pro-Park members.
At present count, Saenuri Party assemblymen say that over 40 will vote to impeach President Park along with opposition parties which will enable the impeachment measure to pass the assembly. The measure is expected to be voted on in early December.
Over 1.5 million demonstrators in Seoul and 500,000 in other cities are expected to brave freezing temperatures and rain in nationwide protests this Saturday.
Chosun Ilbo: Lawmakers to Vote on Impeaching Park
The Hankyoreh: President Park May Refuse To Accept Resignations
At present count, Saenuri Party assemblymen say that over 40 will vote to impeach President Park along with opposition parties which will enable the impeachment measure to pass the assembly. The measure is expected to be voted on in early December.
Over 1.5 million demonstrators in Seoul and 500,000 in other cities are expected to brave freezing temperatures and rain in nationwide protests this Saturday.
Chosun Ilbo: Lawmakers to Vote on Impeaching Park
The Hankyoreh: President Park May Refuse To Accept Resignations
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
President Park Approves Independent Counsel To Investigate Her
The National Assembly passed a bill authorizing the formation of an independent counsel to investigate the Choi Soon-sil scandal, what President Park was doing on the day of the Sewol Ferry tragedy and other scandals involving the President.
President Park signed the bill into effect and plans to send it back to the Assembly by this afternoon.
Yonhap News: Park signs bill for independent probe
President Park signed the bill into effect and plans to send it back to the Assembly by this afternoon.
Yonhap News: Park signs bill for independent probe
Two Rappers Sentenced To Prison For Marijuana In Seoul
More drugs arrests were reported as usual. A two year prison sentence for one rapper
and six months for another because they used marijuana.
People usually get probation, what happened? They probably didn't reveal their source. Anyway, they got suspended sentences, so they don't go to jail.
The one that got a six month suspended sentence was busted for smoking in Thailand in 2015. He must have tested positive in a drug test in Korea and said that he had smoked it in Thailand.
Yonhap News: S. Korean rappers get jail terms for marijuana charges
Under South Korean law, use of marijuana carries a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment or a fine of up to 50 million won ($40,000).
and six months for another because they used marijuana.
People usually get probation, what happened? They probably didn't reveal their source. Anyway, they got suspended sentences, so they don't go to jail.
The one that got a six month suspended sentence was busted for smoking in Thailand in 2015. He must have tested positive in a drug test in Korea and said that he had smoked it in Thailand.
Yonhap News: S. Korean rappers get jail terms for marijuana charges
Under South Korean law, use of marijuana carries a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment or a fine of up to 50 million won ($40,000).
Why President Park Owes Choi Soon-sil
An article in the Chosun Ilbo (Daily News) alleges the Choi family gave several hundred thousands of dollars to President Park's election campaigns for the National Assembly in 1998 and 2000.
Chosun Ilbo: Choi Soon-sil's Family 'Bankrolled Park's Entry into Politics'
Chosun Ilbo: Choi Soon-sil's Family 'Bankrolled Park's Entry into Politics'
Prosecutors Raid Presidential Secretary Office
Prosecutors just announced that they have evidence that Woo Byung-woo, ex-Presidential Senior Secretary for Domestic Affairs was criminally negligent in his duties, and as of this moment, are carrying out a search warrant of the Special Department Internal Affairs inside the Senior Secretary's Office for Domestic Affairs.
Woo Byung-woo resigned last month, and his replacement's resignation was just announced today.
Woo Byung-woo resigned last month, and his replacement's resignation was just announced today.
Korea Times: Prosecution raids presidential office
Korea Times: Prosecutors raid NPS, Samsung
Joongang Daily: ex-Presidential Chief Secretary Kim Ki-choon Tied To Choi Soon-sil Family
Farmers are driving their tractors to Seoul for the demonstrations this Saturday.
Organizers expect over 1.5 million to protest in Seoul and 500,000 in other cities.
Hankyoreh News: University student councils planning class boycotts
Farmers are driving their tractors to Seoul for the demonstrations this Saturday.
Organizers expect over 1.5 million to protest in Seoul and 500,000 in other cities.
Hankyoreh News: University student councils planning class boycotts
Tuesday, November 22, 2016
Prosecutors Have Evidence To Turn Candlelights Into Torches
After the Presidential Office accused the Prosecutors of bias in their investigations and calling the charges listed in the recent indictments "figments of the imagination", there are reports that prosecutors are saying that they already have enough evidence to turn the candlelight demonstrations into torch bearing protests. They say that if they release 10 seconds of the recording between an aide and President Park, candlelight protests would turn into torch bearing ones.
Pretty heated exchange. Unheard of, in my lifetime.
Media is now focusing attention on the other two major conspirators in the scandals, Kim Ki-chun, ex-Presidential Chief of Staff, and Woo Byung-woo, ex-Senior Secretary for Domestic Affairs.
Nobody has found any evidence against these two, so far. However, if they did not know what was going on, they are, at the very least, guilty of gross neglect.
Yesterday, the Gyung-gi Province Governor, Nam Kyung-pil and ruling party assemblyman, Kim Yong-tae held a press conference and announced that they have left the Saenuri Party.
Just on the news, the Minister of Justice, Kim Hyung-ung, and the Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs, Choi Jae-kyung just resigned.
These are the two people who report to the President on police, justice, and intelligence matters and take the President's orders. If they continue to help the President hide, then they are complicit. No choice.
Korea Times: President must take witness stand
Dong-Ah Daily: Presidential staff must not assist in president's personal criminal defense
Most of the major universities have announced a boycott of classes from this Friday, saying if weekend protests are not enough, then they need to do more.
Eight more ruling party members just announced that they are leaving the ruling Saenuri Party.
Pretty heated exchange. Unheard of, in my lifetime.
Media is now focusing attention on the other two major conspirators in the scandals, Kim Ki-chun, ex-Presidential Chief of Staff, and Woo Byung-woo, ex-Senior Secretary for Domestic Affairs.
Nobody has found any evidence against these two, so far. However, if they did not know what was going on, they are, at the very least, guilty of gross neglect.
Yesterday, the Gyung-gi Province Governor, Nam Kyung-pil and ruling party assemblyman, Kim Yong-tae held a press conference and announced that they have left the Saenuri Party.
Just on the news, the Minister of Justice, Kim Hyung-ung, and the Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs, Choi Jae-kyung just resigned.
These are the two people who report to the President on police, justice, and intelligence matters and take the President's orders. If they continue to help the President hide, then they are complicit. No choice.
Korea Times: President must take witness stand
Dong-Ah Daily: Presidential staff must not assist in president's personal criminal defense
Most of the major universities have announced a boycott of classes from this Friday, saying if weekend protests are not enough, then they need to do more.
Eight more ruling party members just announced that they are leaving the ruling Saenuri Party.
Prosecutors Seeking To Charge President Park With 3rd Party Bribery
After carrying out search warrants at Samsung, Korea Horseracing Authority, Korea Equestrian Federation and related persons' residences, Korean prosecutors are now serving a search warrant at the Korean National Pension Fund.
Korea Times: Prosecution raids Samsung, state pension service
If the prosecutors can find evidence of outside influence in the Pension Fund's casting vote on a Samsung merger, then the President is probably looking at 10 years to life imprisonment, which is what many Koreans are demanding. That is the penalty for 3rd party bribery involving over 100 million won (about $9 million).
In addition to donations to two questionable foundations, Samsung was the only group to donate money to another company owned by Choi Soon-sil, which she embezzled after changing the company name and to the Korea Equestrian Federation. The embezzled money was used to buy a hotel, house a million dollar horse, training and expenses for Choi Soon-sil's daughter. Samsung also pledged to donate around $20 million more in preparation for the Olympics to the Equestrian Federation.
Korea Times: Prosecution raids Samsung, state pension service
If the prosecutors can find evidence of outside influence in the Pension Fund's casting vote on a Samsung merger, then the President is probably looking at 10 years to life imprisonment, which is what many Koreans are demanding. That is the penalty for 3rd party bribery involving over 100 million won (about $9 million).
In addition to donations to two questionable foundations, Samsung was the only group to donate money to another company owned by Choi Soon-sil, which she embezzled after changing the company name and to the Korea Equestrian Federation. The embezzled money was used to buy a hotel, house a million dollar horse, training and expenses for Choi Soon-sil's daughter. Samsung also pledged to donate around $20 million more in preparation for the Olympics to the Equestrian Federation.
Around the same time, Samsung was trying to push a merger of two companies in order to pass on control of the group to the present vice-Chairman, Lee Jae-yong. The Korean National Pension Fund controlled shares of one of the companies. Many were opposed since the merger would undervalue the worth of the company shares. The Korean National Pension Fund has lost over several hundred million dollars in the deal up to date due to the low share exchange rate used in the merger.
The merger was between Samsung Trading and Cheil Textiles (Samsung Company, many companies named Cheil are Samsung) in 2015.
The merger was between Samsung Trading and Cheil Textiles (Samsung Company, many companies named Cheil are Samsung) in 2015.
When any major deal goes down, then there are studies, meetings and approvals. If the decision was due to outside pressure, there surely will be evidence to prove this.
The firm consulting the National Pension Fund just announced that they recommended against the merger.
The firm consulting the National Pension Fund just announced that they recommended against the merger.
The Korea Horseracing Authority let Choi Soon-sil use its facilities free of charge, which is unheard of. The president of the federation is an ex-Samsung president, I think.
At the Chaum Hospital, they are reportedly telling staff to delete files.
The Chaum Hospital and a related company is allegedly to have received special favors from President Park. Park frequentely visited the hospital and spa without paying before she became President. She continued to receive prescription by sending her friend, Choi Soon-sil, in her place, according to hospital records.
Another damning case is the Lotte Group. They had already donated to the questionable foundations, but the President allegedly asked the Lotte Chairman to donate another 7.5 billion won (a little less than $7 million) to one of the foundations. Lotte did, but one the day before a search warrant at Lotte, the foundation returned the money.
Everyone suspects a senior presidential aide, Woo Byung-woo informed another aide, Ahn jong-bom, who called the foundation. The foundation called Lotte and said they were returning the money because the land they wanted to purchase was not available or some story like that.
So, the prosecutors should find something. The underlings always have that "it's not my job" mentality which helps greatly.
Another damning case is the Lotte Group. They had already donated to the questionable foundations, but the President allegedly asked the Lotte Chairman to donate another 7.5 billion won (a little less than $7 million) to one of the foundations. Lotte did, but one the day before a search warrant at Lotte, the foundation returned the money.
Everyone suspects a senior presidential aide, Woo Byung-woo informed another aide, Ahn jong-bom, who called the foundation. The foundation called Lotte and said they were returning the money because the land they wanted to purchase was not available or some story like that.
So, the prosecutors should find something. The underlings always have that "it's not my job" mentality which helps greatly.
Monday, November 21, 2016
More President Park Lies Unvealed
When the first scandal on influence peddling (the Chung Yun-hae scandal (Choi Soon-sil's ex-husband and ex-Presidential Secretary) broke, President Park stated through her spokesman that the rumors were groundless. Eventually, the people who reported the crimes were prosecuted and forced out of office.
When the Choi Soon-sil scandal broke out in April, President Park again stated that the rumors were figments of the imagination and completely false.
In President Park's first apology, after the laptop with classified presidential files was found, she said the foundations involved in the scandal were established after discussions and consensus with business groups and that the business groups made the donations voluntarily.
Under questioning by prosecutors, Lee Seung-chul (ex-vice chaiman of the Federatiojn of Korean Industries) said he was ordered by ex-Presidential aide Ahn Jong-bom to collect donations for the foundations. He had previously told the press that all such rumors were false and that it was his idea to collect donations.
In the same apology, President said that Choi Soon-sil only helped her with editing speeches and promotional materials during the beginning of her presidency until her aides were settled in.
In recordings and notes found during searches, it was revealed that President Park asked Choi Soon-sil's advice or approval on ministerial appointments, an intelligence job appointment, and other government agenda. There also was evidence that Choi Soon-sil asked the President to appoint acquaintances to several government posts and private sector posts.
Hankyoreh News: Even Pres. Park’s public apology was riddled with falsehoods
President Park has lied so many times that everyone in Korea knows, including her. My guess is that she realizes by now that they have enough evidence to put her away and is just trying to delay prison as long as possible.
On the news, they reported that almost all past Presidents raised money for various foundations they supported. However, they did not mention that none of those foundations raised donations in such a short time (most within 24 hours of establishment of the foundation). Also, none of the past Presidents were recorded giving orders on raising donations and other details. In addition, no one had tried to so blatantly embezzle money from the foundations.
When the Choi Soon-sil scandal broke out in April, President Park again stated that the rumors were figments of the imagination and completely false.
In President Park's first apology, after the laptop with classified presidential files was found, she said the foundations involved in the scandal were established after discussions and consensus with business groups and that the business groups made the donations voluntarily.
Under questioning by prosecutors, Lee Seung-chul (ex-vice chaiman of the Federatiojn of Korean Industries) said he was ordered by ex-Presidential aide Ahn Jong-bom to collect donations for the foundations. He had previously told the press that all such rumors were false and that it was his idea to collect donations.
In the same apology, President said that Choi Soon-sil only helped her with editing speeches and promotional materials during the beginning of her presidency until her aides were settled in.
In recordings and notes found during searches, it was revealed that President Park asked Choi Soon-sil's advice or approval on ministerial appointments, an intelligence job appointment, and other government agenda. There also was evidence that Choi Soon-sil asked the President to appoint acquaintances to several government posts and private sector posts.
Hankyoreh News: Even Pres. Park’s public apology was riddled with falsehoods
President Park has lied so many times that everyone in Korea knows, including her. My guess is that she realizes by now that they have enough evidence to put her away and is just trying to delay prison as long as possible.
On the news, they reported that almost all past Presidents raised money for various foundations they supported. However, they did not mention that none of those foundations raised donations in such a short time (most within 24 hours of establishment of the foundation). Also, none of the past Presidents were recorded giving orders on raising donations and other details. In addition, no one had tried to so blatantly embezzle money from the foundations.
Another Arrest In The Park Scandal
After weeks of questioning, an arrest warrant has been issued for ex-Vice Minister of Culture, Kim Jong who is accused of abuse of power and giving unauthorized access to classified information. He is the third government official to be arrested.
Prosecutors also applied for an arrest warrant for former Senior Presidential Secretary for Economic Affairs, Cho Won-dong, who is accused of coercing CJ Group to dismiss vice-Chairwoman, Lee Mie-kyung.
Chang Si-ho, a niece of Choi Soon-sil, was arrested days earlier for alleged embezzlement of millions of dollars from her sports center. Samsung and the govermment had donated millions of dollars to the sports center.
Korea Times: Ex-vice culture minister arrested over influence-peddling scandal
Many many more arrests are expected.
Prosecutors also applied for an arrest warrant for former Senior Presidential Secretary for Economic Affairs, Cho Won-dong, who is accused of coercing CJ Group to dismiss vice-Chairwoman, Lee Mie-kyung.
Chang Si-ho, a niece of Choi Soon-sil, was arrested days earlier for alleged embezzlement of millions of dollars from her sports center. Samsung and the govermment had donated millions of dollars to the sports center.
Korea Times: Ex-vice culture minister arrested over influence-peddling scandal
Many many more arrests are expected.
Olympian Swimmer Park Tae-hwan Reveals Existence Of Recording
Olympian swimmer, Park Tae-hwan was found guilty of using banned substances in very suspicious circumstances several years ago. A doctor injected him with a banned substance without informing him. Some suspect that someone persuaded the doctor to do this.
Anyway, he was banned from competition, but his ban ended and he was eligible for the Olympics. Suddenly, the Korean swimming body made a rule banning athletes who use banned substances from competing for 3 years.
Park contested this rule in domestic courts and international court and won.
Park Tae-hwan held a press conference and said that Kim Jong, the ex-vice minister of culture (arrest warrant pending), pressured him to give up on competing in the Olympics offering him a professorship, sponsorship from major corporations among other things.
Kim Jong has stated that Park Tae-hwan is lying and that he met Park only to give encouragement.
It is rumored that someone wanted Park Tae-hwan out of the Olympic team to make room for another swimmer.
Park Tae-hwan said he recorded the conversation and will make it available to the public soon.
Korea Times: Olympian Swimmer Park Another Victim In President Park Scandal
Anyway, he was banned from competition, but his ban ended and he was eligible for the Olympics. Suddenly, the Korean swimming body made a rule banning athletes who use banned substances from competing for 3 years.
Park contested this rule in domestic courts and international court and won.
Park Tae-hwan held a press conference and said that Kim Jong, the ex-vice minister of culture (arrest warrant pending), pressured him to give up on competing in the Olympics offering him a professorship, sponsorship from major corporations among other things.
Kim Jong has stated that Park Tae-hwan is lying and that he met Park only to give encouragement.
It is rumored that someone wanted Park Tae-hwan out of the Olympic team to make room for another swimmer.
Park Tae-hwan said he recorded the conversation and will make it available to the public soon.
Korea Times: Olympian Swimmer Park Another Victim In President Park Scandal
Sunday, November 20, 2016
Lead By Corruption and Coercion
If the claims against President Park are true, then she set a fine example for many government employees and politicians around her. I am almost certain that they followed her example considering they are talking and acting exactly like her.
There are still people in the government eagerly accepting President Park's orders. I sure as hell hope they are not re-elected and/or are fired from their positions. How can they say they didn't know, when there were rumors and scandals for years? They always say the rumors are groundless, figment of the imagination and threaten legal action, even today.
President Park cannot explain away her lies. She may think she can. Many would say that if a President blatantly lies to the people, then that person is unfit to rule and should be considered mentally unstable.
There are still people in the government eagerly accepting President Park's orders. I sure as hell hope they are not re-elected and/or are fired from their positions. How can they say they didn't know, when there were rumors and scandals for years? They always say the rumors are groundless, figment of the imagination and threaten legal action, even today.
President Park cannot explain away her lies. She may think she can. Many would say that if a President blatantly lies to the people, then that person is unfit to rule and should be considered mentally unstable.
Two Years Later President Park Reveals Her Whereabouts
Two years after the Sewol Ferry tragedy, where about 300 students died trapped inside a ferry over the course of several days, the Presidential Office just announced yesterday that President Park was working from her private residence in the Blue House during that day.
If that is all that happened, why did they refuse to answer any questions on President Park's whereabouts for over two years?
Korea Herald: Park was in residence during Sewol disaster
Many feel that the investigations into the ferry disaster were hindered and are still demanding for a fair and thorough investigation along with punishment of those involved as only lower level officials were punished.
And why does it always seem like prosecutors are going after protesters, union leaders and opposition figures?
The Hankyoreh News: Prosecutors seek two-year sentence for Sewol march organizer
The Hankyoreh News is well respected in Korea for not being afraid to print the truth and has been voted the most trustworthy news organization in Korea for 9 years consecutively including 2016.
Wikipedia: The Hankyoreh News
If that is all that happened, why did they refuse to answer any questions on President Park's whereabouts for over two years?
Korea Herald: Park was in residence during Sewol disaster
Many feel that the investigations into the ferry disaster were hindered and are still demanding for a fair and thorough investigation along with punishment of those involved as only lower level officials were punished.
And why does it always seem like prosecutors are going after protesters, union leaders and opposition figures?
The Hankyoreh News: Prosecutors seek two-year sentence for Sewol march organizer
The Hankyoreh News is well respected in Korea for not being afraid to print the truth and has been voted the most trustworthy news organization in Korea for 9 years consecutively including 2016.
Wikipedia: The Hankyoreh News
A Tactic Used By Dictator Park
When Park Jung-hee he ran into opposition or scandals, they used to arrest lots of actors and singers for marijuana. This would make headlines in those days and divert attention from the scandals.
In the past six months, we have seen almost daily news of drug busts and several thousand have been rounded up. Deja-vu. Just coincidence?
Today's headline on Yonhap News TV, "785 people arrested for drugs".
On Korean TV, I saw only one report about pot legalization in California and it seemed like reefer madness all over again.
Another favorite tactic was to frame opposition figures as communist sympathizers or spies. A tradition that resonates even today.
Between 2-3 million are expected to demonstrate against Park this Saturday. President Park and her cronies are confident that the protests will eventually peter out and her army of "guest commentators" on TV news shows are out in full force defending the President and trying to stir up indignation. Her army of protesters (allegedly backed by the Federation of Korean Industries which is allegedly controlled by Presidential aides) are out on the streets.
Korea Times: Park supporters 'hit JTBC reporters'
A great way to deflect attention would be for President Park to come out in favor of medicinal marijuana and say that research into medicinal uses should be allowed. She could also call for legislation to allow export zones (maybe where unemployed old people could work there) to grow it for export to the US, and other countries. That would definitely create a lot of controversy and stir up emotions. Pharmaceutical and alcoholic beverage companies would go to war!
In the past six months, we have seen almost daily news of drug busts and several thousand have been rounded up. Deja-vu. Just coincidence?
Today's headline on Yonhap News TV, "785 people arrested for drugs".
On Korean TV, I saw only one report about pot legalization in California and it seemed like reefer madness all over again.
Another favorite tactic was to frame opposition figures as communist sympathizers or spies. A tradition that resonates even today.
Between 2-3 million are expected to demonstrate against Park this Saturday. President Park and her cronies are confident that the protests will eventually peter out and her army of "guest commentators" on TV news shows are out in full force defending the President and trying to stir up indignation. Her army of protesters (allegedly backed by the Federation of Korean Industries which is allegedly controlled by Presidential aides) are out on the streets.
Korea Times: Park supporters 'hit JTBC reporters'
A great way to deflect attention would be for President Park to come out in favor of medicinal marijuana and say that research into medicinal uses should be allowed. She could also call for legislation to allow export zones (maybe where unemployed old people could work there) to grow it for export to the US, and other countries. That would definitely create a lot of controversy and stir up emotions. Pharmaceutical and alcoholic beverage companies would go to war!
Pointing Out President Park's Lies
A traditionally very pro-Park (my opinion, most media in Korea were pro-Park, until very recently) Korean TV channel, YTN, pointed some more lies that President Park made in her apology speech.
She said only received help from Choi Soon-sil until her presidential aides were selected and settled in. (This was just after the laptop was discovered and in the laptop, only the early part of her presidency was implicated.)
YTN reported that prosecutors are said to have evidence that Park and Choi communicated up until April of this year.
President Park said that donations to the foundations, in question, were completely voluntary on the part of the business groups. In the recording and notes, President Park repeatedly reprimands people for their slowness in getting donations and increases the donation amount arbitrarily. All the business group chairmen say they felt coerced, since they were getting frequent requests to donate after the President asked them to donate.
Also, originally, Lee Sung-chul, the vice-chairman of the Federation of Korean Industries said he took it upon himself to gather donations for the foundations. When questioned by prosecutors he said that Ahn Jong-bom, an ex-Presidential aide under arrest, ordered him to say that and that he was ordered by Ahn to gather donations.
Hankyoreh News: FKI Cannot Hide Lies
There are more lies, seemingly endless, that will be revealed in the coming weeks.
President Park through her spokesman is saying they have no proof, the allegations are completely unfounded. the prosecutors made the indictment public without a through investigation (Park refused to be questioned, so they are claiming that the investigations were incomplete). In order to maintain stability, she will continue acting as President.
Hankyoreh News: Business Groups Pressured to Make Donations
She must be deranged. Well, actually, she is just trying to delay prison. You can't blame her for that. It is expected.
She appointed 3 or 4 of the justices on the Supreme Court which has to rule on any impeachment decisions, so she is saying "Impeach me, if you can.". If the people are watching, then they have to be unbiased, right? If they have chronic cognitive dissonance, then they will justify their decision in a Park-like manner.
They almost got away with all this, except for one forgotten laptop with presidential documents and itineraries on it.
This was reported way back in April, and it took this long to bring an indictment.
Korea Times: FKI Involvement In Scandal and Funding Extreme Demonstrators
There are some pro-Park demonstrators, but in the last demonstrations, it was reported that some attacked a JTBC news crew last Saturday. I want to know why up to 10% of the pro-Park demonstrators wear hats and sunglasses? Cops, detectives, undercover, and agents like sunglasses.
Do they still receive funding from FKI?
She said only received help from Choi Soon-sil until her presidential aides were selected and settled in. (This was just after the laptop was discovered and in the laptop, only the early part of her presidency was implicated.)
YTN reported that prosecutors are said to have evidence that Park and Choi communicated up until April of this year.
President Park said that donations to the foundations, in question, were completely voluntary on the part of the business groups. In the recording and notes, President Park repeatedly reprimands people for their slowness in getting donations and increases the donation amount arbitrarily. All the business group chairmen say they felt coerced, since they were getting frequent requests to donate after the President asked them to donate.
Also, originally, Lee Sung-chul, the vice-chairman of the Federation of Korean Industries said he took it upon himself to gather donations for the foundations. When questioned by prosecutors he said that Ahn Jong-bom, an ex-Presidential aide under arrest, ordered him to say that and that he was ordered by Ahn to gather donations.
Hankyoreh News: FKI Cannot Hide Lies
There are more lies, seemingly endless, that will be revealed in the coming weeks.
President Park through her spokesman is saying they have no proof, the allegations are completely unfounded. the prosecutors made the indictment public without a through investigation (Park refused to be questioned, so they are claiming that the investigations were incomplete). In order to maintain stability, she will continue acting as President.
Hankyoreh News: Business Groups Pressured to Make Donations
She must be deranged. Well, actually, she is just trying to delay prison. You can't blame her for that. It is expected.
She appointed 3 or 4 of the justices on the Supreme Court which has to rule on any impeachment decisions, so she is saying "Impeach me, if you can.". If the people are watching, then they have to be unbiased, right? If they have chronic cognitive dissonance, then they will justify their decision in a Park-like manner.
They almost got away with all this, except for one forgotten laptop with presidential documents and itineraries on it.
This was reported way back in April, and it took this long to bring an indictment.
Korea Times: FKI Involvement In Scandal and Funding Extreme Demonstrators
There are some pro-Park demonstrators, but in the last demonstrations, it was reported that some attacked a JTBC news crew last Saturday. I want to know why up to 10% of the pro-Park demonstrators wear hats and sunglasses? Cops, detectives, undercover, and agents like sunglasses.
Do they still receive funding from FKI?
President Park Will Do Everything To Delay Jail
When the scandal first started, I suspect many people were afraid that President Park might commit suicide (which has happened frequently in such scandals in Korea).
President Park is desperately trying to extend her stay as President. When her term ends, she will be indicted and probably go to jail for a long time.
Since she is surrounded by guards, they should be able to stop any suicide attempts.
It could take months to get rid of her.
New York Times: Park Geun-hye Was Accomplice in Extortion, South Korean Prosecutors Say
New York Times: President Conspired With Her Friend
Washington Post: South Korean political scandal started with a card game in Macau
President Park is desperately trying to extend her stay as President. When her term ends, she will be indicted and probably go to jail for a long time.
Since she is surrounded by guards, they should be able to stop any suicide attempts.
It could take months to get rid of her.
New York Times: Park Geun-hye Was Accomplice in Extortion, South Korean Prosecutors Say
New York Times: President Conspired With Her Friend
Washington Post: South Korean political scandal started with a card game in Macau
President Park Lied Again
President Park promised the people on national television that she would submit to question by prosecutors.
Her lawyer, Yoo Yong-ha, just announced that President Park refuses to undergo questioning by prosecutors. He said that he was preparing for questioning by a special independent prosecuting team that will be formed in the coming weeks.
So, President Park technically did not lie, since it was her lawyer that did the talking. She can say that it was the lawyer's decision to refuse questioning. That's her way of thinking. The ruling party leader, Lee Jong-hyon, also seems to have chronic cognitive dissonance,
CNN: President Park to be investigated as three others indicted
The President's Office just responsed to the indictment charges. They said that the investigation was biased, nothing was proven yet, and that President Park will carry on with her duties. They also said the indictment made it sound like President Park committed a serious crime. They said that the President is innocent and they will prove it.
I strongly suspect that the President's Office is relaying President Park's direct responses.
Her lawyer, Yoo Yong-ha, just announced that President Park refuses to undergo questioning by prosecutors. He said that he was preparing for questioning by a special independent prosecuting team that will be formed in the coming weeks.
So, President Park technically did not lie, since it was her lawyer that did the talking. She can say that it was the lawyer's decision to refuse questioning. That's her way of thinking. The ruling party leader, Lee Jong-hyon, also seems to have chronic cognitive dissonance,
CNN: President Park to be investigated as three others indicted
The President's Office just responsed to the indictment charges. They said that the investigation was biased, nothing was proven yet, and that President Park will carry on with her duties. They also said the indictment made it sound like President Park committed a serious crime. They said that the President is innocent and they will prove it.
I strongly suspect that the President's Office is relaying President Park's direct responses.
Saturday, November 19, 2016
President Park Named As Conspirator In Indictment
Prosecutors just announced the indictments against Ahn Jong-bom (ex-Presidential Aide), Jeong Ho-song (ex-Presidential Aide), and Choi Soon-sil.
In the indictments, President Park was named as a conspirator for being significantly involved in the crimes. The most serious charge of bribery over 100 million won (about $90,000) which can carry a punishment of up to life imprisonment was not listed in the indictment. Prosecutors are saying that this is still being investigated.
Although the President cannot be indicted while in office, the Prosecutors state that they will still carry on investigations into the President. It is said that to name the President in the indictment means that the Prosecutors have a pretty good case.
It is alleged that President Park ordered the amount raised for a foundation from 30 billion won to 50 billion won (about $45 million), that President Park introduced Choi Soon-sil to government and foundation officials, and that business groups donated or gave money because they feared retaliation. Other crimes listed are abuse of power, fraud, unauthorized disclosure of classified information, and coercion. The Prosecutors state they already have enough evidence to prove the indictments and that further charges may be brought.
This is just the start of the telling of the truth. We will all find out a lot more in the coming months.
Will she resign before the shit hits the fan?
If Korean JTBC News didn't find the laptop with presidential speeches and other document files on it, which led to the search warrants that found the burner phones with recordings and chats, in addition to notebooks with memos about orders from President Park and Choi Soon-sil, then two-faced President Park would still be hiding behind the law.
The Prosecutors just announced that President Park asked business group chairmen for favors during her one-to-one meetings with them. President Park is famous for not having one-to-one meetings with any of her ministers (not even one) for discussions of policy or anything. Yet, she met business group chairmen in one-on-one meetings.
In her meeting with Lotte, President Park asked Lotte to donate another 7 billion won ($6.4 million).
In her meeting with Hyundai Motors, she asked the chairman to give 1.1 billion won worth of orders to KD Corporation and 6.2 billion won in advertising to Playground Advertising.
In her meeting with KT (Korea Telecom), she asked that a person be named director in charge of marketing. This director gave KT advertising contract to two companies with connections to Choi Soon-sil and Cha Eun-taek.
There were seven chairmen, who had one-on-one meetings with President Park, so there will be more releases from the prosecutors office in the coming weeks.
New York Times: S. Korean Prosecutors Say Park Conspired With Her Friend
Korea Herald: Presidential office expresses regret over investigation result
BBC: S. Korea president Park Geun-hye 'had role' in scandal
AP: S. Korean prosecutors say Park conspired with her friend
Korea Times: 'President Park criminal suspect,' says prosecution
In the indictments, President Park was named as a conspirator for being significantly involved in the crimes. The most serious charge of bribery over 100 million won (about $90,000) which can carry a punishment of up to life imprisonment was not listed in the indictment. Prosecutors are saying that this is still being investigated.
Although the President cannot be indicted while in office, the Prosecutors state that they will still carry on investigations into the President. It is said that to name the President in the indictment means that the Prosecutors have a pretty good case.
It is alleged that President Park ordered the amount raised for a foundation from 30 billion won to 50 billion won (about $45 million), that President Park introduced Choi Soon-sil to government and foundation officials, and that business groups donated or gave money because they feared retaliation. Other crimes listed are abuse of power, fraud, unauthorized disclosure of classified information, and coercion. The Prosecutors state they already have enough evidence to prove the indictments and that further charges may be brought.
This is just the start of the telling of the truth. We will all find out a lot more in the coming months.
Will she resign before the shit hits the fan?
If Korean JTBC News didn't find the laptop with presidential speeches and other document files on it, which led to the search warrants that found the burner phones with recordings and chats, in addition to notebooks with memos about orders from President Park and Choi Soon-sil, then two-faced President Park would still be hiding behind the law.
The Prosecutors just announced that President Park asked business group chairmen for favors during her one-to-one meetings with them. President Park is famous for not having one-to-one meetings with any of her ministers (not even one) for discussions of policy or anything. Yet, she met business group chairmen in one-on-one meetings.
In her meeting with Lotte, President Park asked Lotte to donate another 7 billion won ($6.4 million).
In her meeting with Hyundai Motors, she asked the chairman to give 1.1 billion won worth of orders to KD Corporation and 6.2 billion won in advertising to Playground Advertising.
In her meeting with KT (Korea Telecom), she asked that a person be named director in charge of marketing. This director gave KT advertising contract to two companies with connections to Choi Soon-sil and Cha Eun-taek.
There were seven chairmen, who had one-on-one meetings with President Park, so there will be more releases from the prosecutors office in the coming weeks.
New York Times: S. Korean Prosecutors Say Park Conspired With Her Friend
Korea Herald: Presidential office expresses regret over investigation result
BBC: S. Korea president Park Geun-hye 'had role' in scandal
AP: S. Korean prosecutors say Park conspired with her friend
Korea Times: 'President Park criminal suspect,' says prosecution
4th Week Of Seoul Protests Demanding President Park Step Down
Compared to last week, demonstrators were more densely packed, but in a slightly smaller area. After taking into consideration that most people do not stay for the whole demonstration, I estimate almost one million attended. Official estimates are over 600,000 demonstrators in Seoul and over 350,000 in 16 other cities.
Last week, I could get to Kwangwha Mun. This week, I could not. I was blocked by walls of people. It was too packed to get close. I gave up a block away from Kwangwha Mun and it took me an hour to get out of there.
There were crowds on Jongro 2nd Street which is three blocks from Kwangwha Mun.
Last week, I could get to Kwangwha Mun. This week, I could not. I was blocked by walls of people. It was too packed to get close. I gave up a block away from Kwangwha Mun and it took me an hour to get out of there.
There were crowds on Jongro 2nd Street which is three blocks from Kwangwha Mun.
Jongro 2nd Street
A Block Away From Kwangwha Mun
Trapped In Crowds
Between City Hall and Kwangwha Mun
According to police, this is 80,000 people. Must be several hundred thousand. It seems President Park controls what the police say.
Friday, November 18, 2016
Scaring Family Demonstrators From Protesting
Peaceful demonstrations are planned throughout Korea today starting from 6 pm.
Pro-Park groups announced they are planning marches in Seoul at the same time.
Media keep reporting there might be violence between the two groups.
Many feel that this is a blatant attempt to scare families from participating in the demonstrations.
Gonna take my family to the protests! See you there.
Thursday, November 17, 2016
Past Questionable Investigations
Just because they can keep it out of the news, doesn't mean that it will disappear.
It is widely suspected that the investigations into the following incidents were far from satisfactory.
1. Involvement by Korean intelligence in the last presidential election.
2. Involvement by Korean military intelligence in the last presidential election.
3. Involvement by ruling party assemblymen Yoon Sang-hyon and Choi Kyun-hwan in illegal campaigning during the last presidential elections.
4. The Chung Yoon-hae scandal regarding influence peddling.
5. The Song Hwan-jong scandal where he named people he gave money to before committing suicide.
6. Spreading of false information during the last presidential election by ruling party assemblyman Kim Moo-sung (found not guilty because he said he thought something he read was true), The ruling party used this false information to paint people as communist sympathizers.
7. There was another one where a policewoman (now opposition assemblywoman) reported that her superior was interfering in the investigation into interference by Korean intelligence before the last Presidential elections. She was accused of perjury and forced out. Her superior was found innocent. Very unfair ruling. The policewoman was acquitted of perjury just this year. They dragged the case on and on, just to make trouble.
Those are only the ones I know and am ticked off about. I probably forgot some.
That is why a lot of Koreans were too scared to protest. What can you do? They got the law!
But now, President Park and her gang have pissed off everyone. It is only going to get better!
It is widely suspected that the investigations into the following incidents were far from satisfactory.
1. Involvement by Korean intelligence in the last presidential election.
2. Involvement by Korean military intelligence in the last presidential election.
3. Involvement by ruling party assemblymen Yoon Sang-hyon and Choi Kyun-hwan in illegal campaigning during the last presidential elections.
4. The Chung Yoon-hae scandal regarding influence peddling.
5. The Song Hwan-jong scandal where he named people he gave money to before committing suicide.
6. Spreading of false information during the last presidential election by ruling party assemblyman Kim Moo-sung (found not guilty because he said he thought something he read was true), The ruling party used this false information to paint people as communist sympathizers.
7. There was another one where a policewoman (now opposition assemblywoman) reported that her superior was interfering in the investigation into interference by Korean intelligence before the last Presidential elections. She was accused of perjury and forced out. Her superior was found innocent. Very unfair ruling. The policewoman was acquitted of perjury just this year. They dragged the case on and on, just to make trouble.
Those are only the ones I know and am ticked off about. I probably forgot some.
That is why a lot of Koreans were too scared to protest. What can you do? They got the law!
But now, President Park and her gang have pissed off everyone. It is only going to get better!
List Of Arrested In President Park, Choi Soon-sil Scandal
The prosecutors are rumored to have decided to put President Park in Choi Soon-sil's indictment as an accomplice.
People arrested, so far, are below;
Ms. Choi Soon-sil
Mr. Cha Eun-taek
Mr. An Chong-bum (Presidential Aide)
Mr. Jeong Ho-seong (Presidential Aide)
Ms. Choi Si-ho (niece of Ms. Choi Soon-sil)
The prosecutors just applied for an arrest warrant for Kim Chong ex-Vice Minister of Culture.
Expect this list to grow in the coming weeks.
Every time some scandal happens that is close to her, President Park has almost always ordered a thorough investigation and strict punishment on those involved. She does this to distance herself from the spotlight.
When the Choi Soon-sil scandal broke out, she did this. Now, the Lee Yeong-bok scandal, she says the same thing. Eventually, it will probably be revealed that people around President Park were involved.
The ruling party is talking about imposing martial law. What a joke! They are doing their best to deflect attention.
People arrested, so far, are below;
Ms. Choi Soon-sil
Mr. Cha Eun-taek
Mr. An Chong-bum (Presidential Aide)
Mr. Jeong Ho-seong (Presidential Aide)
Ms. Choi Si-ho (niece of Ms. Choi Soon-sil)
The prosecutors just applied for an arrest warrant for Kim Chong ex-Vice Minister of Culture.
Expect this list to grow in the coming weeks.
Every time some scandal happens that is close to her, President Park has almost always ordered a thorough investigation and strict punishment on those involved. She does this to distance herself from the spotlight.
When the Choi Soon-sil scandal broke out, she did this. Now, the Lee Yeong-bok scandal, she says the same thing. Eventually, it will probably be revealed that people around President Park were involved.
The ruling party is talking about imposing martial law. What a joke! They are doing their best to deflect attention.
Ewha University Students Were Right
Ewha University students had demonstrated for months demanding the resignation of the University President for all sorts of things.
After the Choi Soon-sil scandal started, the Ministry of Education started investigations into Ewha University in late October. The results were just announced on TV.
It confirmed that Chung Yu-ra (Choi Soon-sil's youngest daughter) received special favors that allowed her to be accepted and that professors had given her good grades when she had never taken any classes and rarely submitted homework or took tests. The Ministry is taking punitive actions against university, asking that her admission be cancelled, and asking for criminal actions be taken against the professors and administrators implicated.
After the Choi Soon-sil scandal started, the Ministry of Education started investigations into Ewha University in late October. The results were just announced on TV.
It confirmed that Chung Yu-ra (Choi Soon-sil's youngest daughter) received special favors that allowed her to be accepted and that professors had given her good grades when she had never taken any classes and rarely submitted homework or took tests. The Ministry is taking punitive actions against university, asking that her admission be cancelled, and asking for criminal actions be taken against the professors and administrators implicated.
Chung illegally admitted to Ewha
Wednesday, November 16, 2016
Dun Worry, If Park Refuses To Leave
Eventually, no one will listen to her. Probably end up sealing her in the Blue House.
Gotta feeling that most people in government don't want to follow her orders or policies.
People on TV news are now saying that the circumstantial evidence points to the following scenario:
President Park meets with group chairman, the group's immediate problems are resolved favorably, Choi and her gang collect money from the groups, with President Park seeming to give directions. Repeat 8 or more times. Pay little or don't cooperate, and then the group or group chairman runs into bad luck.
They say it will be hard to prove, but there is so much circumstantial evidence that it might be possible, even if they all deny it.
Too bad Korean prosecutors don't grant immunity to witnesses. If they did, even to just one person, they will have enough evidence to put people away for a long time.
Hope the people keep on being positive and peaceful.
Gotta feeling that most people in government don't want to follow her orders or policies.
People on TV news are now saying that the circumstantial evidence points to the following scenario:
President Park meets with group chairman, the group's immediate problems are resolved favorably, Choi and her gang collect money from the groups, with President Park seeming to give directions. Repeat 8 or more times. Pay little or don't cooperate, and then the group or group chairman runs into bad luck.
They say it will be hard to prove, but there is so much circumstantial evidence that it might be possible, even if they all deny it.
Too bad Korean prosecutors don't grant immunity to witnesses. If they did, even to just one person, they will have enough evidence to put people away for a long time.
Hope the people keep on being positive and peaceful.
Vietnam Voices: President Park should publicly apologize for South Korea’s sexual violence in Vietnam
What Was President Park Doing For 7 Hours During The Sewol Ferry Tragedy
During the Sewol Ferry sinking in 2014, President Park appeared on television 7 hours after the sinking was reported and asked if it was so hard to find the students when they were wearing life vests.
All Koreans knew that the students were trapped and couldn't get out from TV. Why didn't President Park know?
People asked, investigations were carried out and obstructed by the ruling party.
President Park avoided all questions on what she was doing that day. Officials were questioned and they said they didn't know what she was doing, or that it was classified.
Rumors were rampant that President Park probably received cosmetic surgery during the tragedy and didn't hear about the tragedy until 7 hours after it started.
Through recent search warrants related to the Choi Soon-sil case, it was found that Ms. Choi secretly visited a medical clinic in the place of President Park and got prescriptions for Glutathione. A military nurse administered the injections to the President.
Joonang Daily News: Park got $127,820 in free health and beauty treatments
The Blue House (Presidential residence) officially stated that no outsiders or medical vehicles entered the compound on that day. The spokesman said that he asked the President directly and she replied that the rumors are completely false.
It was just announced today that after searching the records, it was found that the nurse entered the Blue House on the day of the Sewol Ferry tragedy.
The Blue House just announced that there are no records showing the nurse entered the Blue House. This conflicts with the military hospital records which state that she did.
Now, we know why she and the ruling party kept stonewalling the simple question, what were you doing that day? Yet, she feels no shame.
President Park refuses to step down and is planning to try to raise her popularity. She is inviting impeachment fully knowing that it will take almost a year, at which time her term will be nearly over.
She lied to the people about her willingness to be questioned, her relationship with Choi Soon-sil, what she was doing the day of the Sewol tragedy and more. Yet, she doesn't seem to remember that she lied and did these things. Geez!
Legally, "unfit to serve" doesn't refer only to physical health, but also mental.
All Koreans knew that the students were trapped and couldn't get out from TV. Why didn't President Park know?
People asked, investigations were carried out and obstructed by the ruling party.
President Park avoided all questions on what she was doing that day. Officials were questioned and they said they didn't know what she was doing, or that it was classified.
Rumors were rampant that President Park probably received cosmetic surgery during the tragedy and didn't hear about the tragedy until 7 hours after it started.
Through recent search warrants related to the Choi Soon-sil case, it was found that Ms. Choi secretly visited a medical clinic in the place of President Park and got prescriptions for Glutathione. A military nurse administered the injections to the President.
Joonang Daily News: Park got $127,820 in free health and beauty treatments
The Blue House (Presidential residence) officially stated that no outsiders or medical vehicles entered the compound on that day. The spokesman said that he asked the President directly and she replied that the rumors are completely false.
It was just announced today that after searching the records, it was found that the nurse entered the Blue House on the day of the Sewol Ferry tragedy.
The Blue House just announced that there are no records showing the nurse entered the Blue House. This conflicts with the military hospital records which state that she did.
Now, we know why she and the ruling party kept stonewalling the simple question, what were you doing that day? Yet, she feels no shame.
President Park refuses to step down and is planning to try to raise her popularity. She is inviting impeachment fully knowing that it will take almost a year, at which time her term will be nearly over.
She lied to the people about her willingness to be questioned, her relationship with Choi Soon-sil, what she was doing the day of the Sewol tragedy and more. Yet, she doesn't seem to remember that she lied and did these things. Geez!
Legally, "unfit to serve" doesn't refer only to physical health, but also mental.
Tuesday, November 15, 2016
Korean Prosecutors vs. President Park
On SBS TV News, they reported that the notebook belonging to ex-Presidential Secretary Ahn Jong-bom (arrested), which was taken from the Blue House under a search warrant, was full of notes recording what President Park ordered him to do, including firing people and raising funds.
The prosecutors never released or leaked the contents of the notebook, until now.
Why? President Park said that she would accept questioning in the Choi Soon-sil case, but her lawyer is refusing to let her be questioned. The prosecutors need to question her by today in order to indict Choi Soon-sil by Saturday, the deadline for detention without formal charges. The lead prosecutor said that if President Park accepts questioning by Friday, it would be alright., The prosecutors are leaking information to pressure President Park. They are saying we have enough evidence, if you do not want to defend yourself, okay. We will leak more information.
In another leak, another Presidential Secretary, also under arrest, recorded his phone calls with President Park and Choi Soon-sil. In one recording, President Park asks him if he got Teacher Choi's approval. He was using a burner phone.
The prosecutors never released or leaked the contents of the notebook, until now.
Why? President Park said that she would accept questioning in the Choi Soon-sil case, but her lawyer is refusing to let her be questioned. The prosecutors need to question her by today in order to indict Choi Soon-sil by Saturday, the deadline for detention without formal charges. The lead prosecutor said that if President Park accepts questioning by Friday, it would be alright., The prosecutors are leaking information to pressure President Park. They are saying we have enough evidence, if you do not want to defend yourself, okay. We will leak more information.
In another leak, another Presidential Secretary, also under arrest, recorded his phone calls with President Park and Choi Soon-sil. In one recording, President Park asks him if he got Teacher Choi's approval. He was using a burner phone.
President Park Ordered Legal Action Against Critical Media?
Notes allegedly taken by Kim Young-han, the late senior presidential secretary for civil affairs (the same person is alleged to have given the tablet PC to Choi Soon-sil full of classified information and emails) appear to show that the Blue House ordered legal attacks against media outlets critical of the Park administration's influence peddling scandal in 2014.
Korea Times article: Did Park order 'attack' on critical media?
She won't step down and neither will the people. How long before someone dies? If someone does die, she is responsible, in my eyes.
Even the traditionally conservative media have turned on her now.
Korea Herald editorial: Park should tell the truth and wait for people’s verdict
Even the traditionally conservative media have turned on her now.
Korea Herald editorial: Park should tell the truth and wait for people’s verdict
SNS Surveillance By Korean Government
A house was raided and searched after someone posted on a Korean SNS site that he was going to bring a gun to the protests (Koreans aren't allowed to own guns, except for hunting and it has to be stored at a police station).
Many Koreans feel that the Internet and phones are tapped.
Korea Times article: "Beware: Everything you write on social media about President is under scrutiny"
What happens if you oppose President Park? You could be labelled a North Korean sympathizer and ostracized.
Korea Times article: "Park's fierce political enemy backed for top probe job"
Another popular nominee for the Special Prosecutor job to investigate the Choi Soon-sil scandal and President Park's role is Chae Dong-wook, the ex-Attorney General who was forced to resign after he disclosed that his superior was biased against the opposition parties and was obstructing an investigation into the Korean NSA's involvement in spreading mass propaganda against the opposition using SNS accounts and agents, just before the last Presidential elections in which Park won by a slight 1 or 2% majority. There were also false last minute accusations about sympathizing and kowtowing to North Koreans by ex-President Noh (which damaged the opposition candidate Moon Jae-in reputation since he was the Chief Secretary to President Noh). The ruling party somehow got the classified records from the Korean NSA and deliberately misinterpreted words and statements. They also put them out of context. No one could confirm or deny, since the records are secret. Only a few people know what went on. Moon repeatedly said that the allegations were false, but the ruling party drowned him out and President Park won. Bummer.
In the news, this morning, the Blue House announced that stepping down from the Presidency is unconstitutional. What in the world? These people are deranged.
Giving your friend special favors and appointing her friends to posts where they embezzled money, letting her friends see classified documents and more is unconstitutional. Having such a president remain in power is unconstitutional.
Yesterday, students from 15 universities marched in four areas of Seoul and were joined by regular citizens.
In the news, this morning, the Blue House announced that stepping down from the Presidency is unconstitutional. What in the world? These people are deranged.
Giving your friend special favors and appointing her friends to posts where they embezzled money, letting her friends see classified documents and more is unconstitutional. Having such a president remain in power is unconstitutional.
Yesterday, students from 15 universities marched in four areas of Seoul and were joined by regular citizens.
Monday, November 14, 2016
Korean President Park Appoints Defense Lawyer
Prosecutors asked to question President Park as a witness to the Choi Soon-sil investigations yesterday. It was also announced yesterday that President Park appointed lawyer Yoo Yong-ha as her defense lawyer. He appeared on TV today saying that he was just appointed and needs more time to study the case.
What the fuck? President Park is being questioned as a witness, not suspect. Why does she need a defense lawyer? Looks like if she makes a mistake during questioning, she's gonna get caught!
When I went to be questioned as a witness, they never let me have a lawyer. I was innocent, but they wanted to make sure.
The President's lawyer went on to say that he thinks that questioning the President should be delayed until all the investigations are over, otherwise she will be questioned several times.
Everyone is in agreement that President Park is trying to delay her departure as long as possible. It could take 5-8 months to impeach her and the ruling party still might vote against it.
Everyone knows that if President Park doesn't step down, it will eventually get violent. She knows that too and doesn't give a damn!
If someone dies or gets injured at the next demonstrations. she's gonna keep thinking "it's their fault for protesting". I have met people like this many times before. Unreasonable. Due to chronic cognitive dissonance.
If someone dies or gets arrested, is she ethically responsible? Hell yes!
95% disapproval rating. 0% support among young in 20s and 30s.
Take the hint.
Nixon ordered an office in the Watergate to be broken into and he stepped down. If that's the American standard, then President Park has definitely lost in the court of American opinion, if not the world.
What the fuck? President Park is being questioned as a witness, not suspect. Why does she need a defense lawyer? Looks like if she makes a mistake during questioning, she's gonna get caught!
When I went to be questioned as a witness, they never let me have a lawyer. I was innocent, but they wanted to make sure.
The President's lawyer went on to say that he thinks that questioning the President should be delayed until all the investigations are over, otherwise she will be questioned several times.
Everyone is in agreement that President Park is trying to delay her departure as long as possible. It could take 5-8 months to impeach her and the ruling party still might vote against it.
Everyone knows that if President Park doesn't step down, it will eventually get violent. She knows that too and doesn't give a damn!
If someone dies or gets injured at the next demonstrations. she's gonna keep thinking "it's their fault for protesting". I have met people like this many times before. Unreasonable. Due to chronic cognitive dissonance.
If someone dies or gets arrested, is she ethically responsible? Hell yes!
95% disapproval rating. 0% support among young in 20s and 30s.
Take the hint.
Nixon ordered an office in the Watergate to be broken into and he stepped down. If that's the American standard, then President Park has definitely lost in the court of American opinion, if not the world.
Official Tally of Protesters in Seoul Demonstrations
The Seoul City Subway reported that after analyzing traffic at subways near the demonstration for up to 11 pm., more than 460,000 people attended the protests using the subway. They compared the normal traffic on Saturdays with the traffic during the Saturday of the protests.
As the subway usually carries 37% of the traffic, it is estimated that over 1.27 million people attended as of 11 pm that night.
The protests lasted until 3:00 am., until the police asked the remaining demonstrators to disperse.
The police unashamedly state only 260,000 attended.
There were also demonstrations in other cities in Korea, and all around the world.
As the subway usually carries 37% of the traffic, it is estimated that over 1.27 million people attended as of 11 pm that night.
The protests lasted until 3:00 am., until the police asked the remaining demonstrators to disperse.
The police unashamedly state only 260,000 attended.
There were also demonstrations in other cities in Korea, and all around the world.
Saturday, November 12, 2016
Seoul Demonstration Pictures and Videos
Went to City Hall by subway at 3:30 pm. The subway was packed and delayed.
The police say there were 250,000 demonstrators. The demonstration organizers say there were 850,000 demonstrators at 6:30 pm. If you take into account that there are demonstrations all around the center of Seoul, there were more than a million.
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| Subway |
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| Seoul City Hall subway exit at 4:00 pm. |
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| Took a side street to avoid the crowds, but all the side streets were packed. |
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| In front of Sejong Cultural Center in Kwangwha Mun Plaza at 6:00 pm. |
The police say there were 250,000 demonstrators. The demonstration organizers say there were 850,000 demonstrators at 6:30 pm. If you take into account that there are demonstrations all around the center of Seoul, there were more than a million.
Considering the protest started at 4:00 pm and will continue to past midnight, the total number of demonstrators could be more than two million.
The last video was taken about 1 km away from Kwangwha Mun.
On the news, they say that two kilometers from Kwangwha Mun to Namdae Mun was packed with demonstrators. Also the side streets for two blocks on each side were also packed.
High Tech News Video Footage
I left at 7:00 pm to have dinner at home. As I left, I saw even bigger crowds walking towards Kwangwha Mun Plaza. I think most people are going to participate after dinner.
I saw a lot of students that packed snacks for dinner. No money.
The last video was taken about 1 km away from Kwangwha Mun.
On the news, they say that two kilometers from Kwangwha Mun to Namdae Mun was packed with demonstrators. Also the side streets for two blocks on each side were also packed.
High Tech News Video Footage
Friday, November 11, 2016
Why Time Moves Forward?
Maybe the reason that time only moves forward is that time is similar to mass being pulled by gravity. There could be some extremely strong force that drives or pulls time (reactions) forward. Something you could slow down, but not reverse.
Bob Marley - Redemption song
One Hour Before Demonstrations In Seoul
(Seoul, 15:00)
The ruling party controls almost half of the seats in Parliament, so impeachment which requires a 2/3 majority is almost impossible.
The only way is for Koreans to demonstrate and show their dissatisfaction with President Park and her gang in full force. They can show that if the ruling party votes against impeachment, then the ruling party is no more. President's approval rating is 5% and the ruling party is 17%. A lot of old people just won't believe the facts or the seriousness of the crimes.
This is the third Saturday of demonstrations around the country with participation increasing every week.
Demonstrators gathering in front of Seoul City Hall.
The ruling party controls almost half of the seats in Parliament, so impeachment which requires a 2/3 majority is almost impossible.
The only way is for Koreans to demonstrate and show their dissatisfaction with President Park and her gang in full force. They can show that if the ruling party votes against impeachment, then the ruling party is no more. President's approval rating is 5% and the ruling party is 17%. A lot of old people just won't believe the facts or the seriousness of the crimes.
This is the third Saturday of demonstrations around the country with participation increasing every week.
Demonstrators gathering in front of Seoul City Hall.
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| (from YTN Korean news channel) |
Thursday, November 10, 2016
Trump Victory - A Deja Vu of President Park's Election
President Park's election was based on post truths, assistance from the military intelligence, Korean NSA, and a last minute accusation of wrong doing by their opponent (with alleged Korean NSA help).
Trump's election relied on post truths and inciting anger against certain groups (in Korea, usually North Korea and anyone who talks about peace with the North), and a last minute accusation of wrong doing by the FBI.
That last minute accusation of wrong doing. At least, US Republicans are very well aware of Korean political tactics. They probably knew about President Park.
Parliament Question Korean Government Officials on Choi Soon-sil Scandals
(Seoul Nov 11, 2016 11:00)
Only opposition party members applied to question Korean government officials on current government matters. The ruling party refused to ask questions.
Only two channels are broadcasting this event. Some of the questions asked are summarized below;
Democratic Party Member Chung Dong-yong asked about how this scandal could have gone on without the present Prime Minister's knowledge. The Prime Minister used to be the Minister of Justice who is in charge of investigations into government corruption. The Prime Minister denied any knowledge. Mr. Chung pointed out that out of all 18 ministers in the government, none had one on one talks with the President about what they were doing and their opinions. He asked any of the 18 Ministers present to raise their hands if they reported to the President directly. None went up.
Mr. Chung said if the President doesn't step down, he will ask everyone to start impeachment proceedings.
Democratic Party Member Ahn Song-gil raised questions about the Chung Yun-ae scandal in 2014. Chung Yun-ae was Choi Soon-sil's husband at the time, now divorced. The head of the President's office on corruption reported that there was influence peddling and corruption involving the President's immediate circle. The present Prime Minister was the Minister of Justice. The person who reported the crime was indicted, the policeman who assisted the investigation was fired, the Attorney General was forced to resign and other things. He asked Minister of Justice how come the investigation into the Korea Parents Association is still going on, since April, while opposition members are being railroad and fast tracked in their investigations? Minister replied they are doing their best. The Parents Association is a group of old people in their 60s and 70s who appear at over 100 demonstrations a year. These people don't know the names of politicians or the causes they are protesting against. The same Korean Federation of Industries that is being implicated in the Choi Soon-sil scandals is also accused of funding this group with the Blue House (president Park) giving directions.
Democratic Party Member Park Yong-sun asked about the forced resignation of Korean Airlines Chairman Cho Yang-ho as the Chairman of the Pyeongchan Winter Olympics. He reportedly refused to give a construction contract to front companies of Choi Soon-sil. Choi Soon-sil also received a lot of favors in contracts and appointments to posts in the Ministry of Culture and the Minister of Culture was asked about that also.
There are many posts in the cabinet, justice department, intelligence agencies, government organizations and other appointments where friends and acquaintances of Choi Soon-sil's abused their powers. Ms. Park asked the attorney general about investigations into these allegations. The attorney general promised fair and thorough investigations.
Citizen's Party Member Shin Yong-hyun asked about corruption involved with Choi Soon-sil's daughter who went to school on average for a month a year and still graduated and managed to get into the best women's university in Korea on a newly created special spot for Horse Riding. The professors gave her good grades for not attending classes and submitting substandard homework, not mention taking any tests.
There about more opposition members scheduled to ask questions, but you can get an idea of how long and how extensive this influence peddling, cash grabbing and intimidation has gone on. Ever since the beginning of Park's presidency. That's going to be very hard to hide, even if they do manage to destroy almost all of the evidence, this has been going on for so long, that it is impossible to hide the all of the circumstantial evidence. Everyone is saying President Park ordered them to do it or gave constant suggestions or directions. There are recordings on a burner phone, there are notebooks with notes, and probably other material. Evidence is scant, but testimonies from victims of all this corruption are coming forward and speaking out.
People are asking why do all of the president's assistants carry burner phones and why were two Presidential secretaries assigned to Choi Soon-sil? They stopped the broadcast of the parliament for the 12 O'clock News.
Police always give a very low estimate of the crowds at anti-government demonstrations. The protest organizers always give a conservative estimate of the crowds. It is usually more than that considering most people do not stay for the whole 5-8 hours.
Been to football games and know what 100,000 people look like. If the area in front of Seoul City Hall is full of people, that is probably more people than in a full U of Michigan football stadium. So that is a lot of people asking President Park to leave peacefully, but she keeps refusing. There will be more people this weekend. People also demonstrate every day.
The big demonstration is planned for this Saturday. Gonna be there!!! First time ever in a protest.
If she doesn't step down after this weekend, she's gonna be responsible for all the ensuing violence and chaos. She won't step down or stop lying.
Bob Marley - Stop That Train
Only opposition party members applied to question Korean government officials on current government matters. The ruling party refused to ask questions.
Only two channels are broadcasting this event. Some of the questions asked are summarized below;
Democratic Party Member Chung Dong-yong asked about how this scandal could have gone on without the present Prime Minister's knowledge. The Prime Minister used to be the Minister of Justice who is in charge of investigations into government corruption. The Prime Minister denied any knowledge. Mr. Chung pointed out that out of all 18 ministers in the government, none had one on one talks with the President about what they were doing and their opinions. He asked any of the 18 Ministers present to raise their hands if they reported to the President directly. None went up.
Mr. Chung said if the President doesn't step down, he will ask everyone to start impeachment proceedings.
Democratic Party Member Ahn Song-gil raised questions about the Chung Yun-ae scandal in 2014. Chung Yun-ae was Choi Soon-sil's husband at the time, now divorced. The head of the President's office on corruption reported that there was influence peddling and corruption involving the President's immediate circle. The present Prime Minister was the Minister of Justice. The person who reported the crime was indicted, the policeman who assisted the investigation was fired, the Attorney General was forced to resign and other things. He asked Minister of Justice how come the investigation into the Korea Parents Association is still going on, since April, while opposition members are being railroad and fast tracked in their investigations? Minister replied they are doing their best. The Parents Association is a group of old people in their 60s and 70s who appear at over 100 demonstrations a year. These people don't know the names of politicians or the causes they are protesting against. The same Korean Federation of Industries that is being implicated in the Choi Soon-sil scandals is also accused of funding this group with the Blue House (president Park) giving directions.
Democratic Party Member Park Yong-sun asked about the forced resignation of Korean Airlines Chairman Cho Yang-ho as the Chairman of the Pyeongchan Winter Olympics. He reportedly refused to give a construction contract to front companies of Choi Soon-sil. Choi Soon-sil also received a lot of favors in contracts and appointments to posts in the Ministry of Culture and the Minister of Culture was asked about that also.
There are many posts in the cabinet, justice department, intelligence agencies, government organizations and other appointments where friends and acquaintances of Choi Soon-sil's abused their powers. Ms. Park asked the attorney general about investigations into these allegations. The attorney general promised fair and thorough investigations.
Citizen's Party Member Shin Yong-hyun asked about corruption involved with Choi Soon-sil's daughter who went to school on average for a month a year and still graduated and managed to get into the best women's university in Korea on a newly created special spot for Horse Riding. The professors gave her good grades for not attending classes and submitting substandard homework, not mention taking any tests.
There about more opposition members scheduled to ask questions, but you can get an idea of how long and how extensive this influence peddling, cash grabbing and intimidation has gone on. Ever since the beginning of Park's presidency. That's going to be very hard to hide, even if they do manage to destroy almost all of the evidence, this has been going on for so long, that it is impossible to hide the all of the circumstantial evidence. Everyone is saying President Park ordered them to do it or gave constant suggestions or directions. There are recordings on a burner phone, there are notebooks with notes, and probably other material. Evidence is scant, but testimonies from victims of all this corruption are coming forward and speaking out.
People are asking why do all of the president's assistants carry burner phones and why were two Presidential secretaries assigned to Choi Soon-sil? They stopped the broadcast of the parliament for the 12 O'clock News.
Police always give a very low estimate of the crowds at anti-government demonstrations. The protest organizers always give a conservative estimate of the crowds. It is usually more than that considering most people do not stay for the whole 5-8 hours.
Been to football games and know what 100,000 people look like. If the area in front of Seoul City Hall is full of people, that is probably more people than in a full U of Michigan football stadium. So that is a lot of people asking President Park to leave peacefully, but she keeps refusing. There will be more people this weekend. People also demonstrate every day.
The big demonstration is planned for this Saturday. Gonna be there!!! First time ever in a protest.
If she doesn't step down after this weekend, she's gonna be responsible for all the ensuing violence and chaos. She won't step down or stop lying.
Bob Marley - Stop That Train