President Yoon Suk-yeol and National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo were caught up in controversy surrounding conspiracy theories about the deadly Itaewon crowd crush. The former speaker disclosed that Yoon suggested the accident may have been instigated by certain groups, leading to debates over the resignation of Interior Minister Lee Sang-min.
In his memoir, Kim Jin-pyo shared details of his conversation with Yoon, urging Lee to resign to defuse political tensions. Yoon’s reluctance to make a decision due to his doubts about the tragedy raised eyebrows. The revelation sparked criticism from the opposition party, accusing Yoon of endorsing far-right conspiracy theories.
The presidential office refuted Kim’s claims, defending Yoon’s stance on investigating the incident. However, the backlash from political figures and the public intensified, with calls for Yoon’s impeachment. The controversy highlighted the influence of conspiracy theories on high-level decision-making, raising concerns about the country’s governance.
By Lim Jae-woo, staff reporter; Jang Na-rye, staff reporter
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Caption: President Yoon Suk-yeol (left) and National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo on Oct. 31, 2022, ahead of Yoon’s 2023 budget address. (pool photo)