Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich expressed concern, saying, "Korea's democracy is in crisis." Gingrich is an elder statesman of the American Republican Party and is classified as a prominent 'pro-Trump figure.'
On the 27th (local time), Gingrich stated in a column published in the Washington Times titled "The Korean crisis of freedom and democracy" that the Korean government is taking a path against the United States.
Gingrich noted, "President Lee Jae-myung is continuing a breathtaking attack on religious and political freedom," adding, "There are large-scale raids occurring at the homes and offices of major religious leaders, along with disrespectful actions such as inspecting the personal belongings of a former first lady."
He further claimed regarding the raid at the Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek by the special prosecutor for insurrection, "They conducted a raid on the base without informing the United States," stating, "Because of this arrogant act, Secretary of State Marco Rubio canceled his meeting with National Security Office Director Wi Sung-lak, and discussions between trade negotiation delegations from both countries also did not take place."
Last month, Wi Sung-lak, the head of the National Security Office, visited the United States ahead of the application of a 25% reciprocal tariff, but his meeting with Secretary Rubio did not materialize. The presidential office explained that "there was an urgent call from President Trump," and "Secretary Rubio apologized three times."
Gingrich pointed out, "President Trump ultimately posted on Truth Social, 'It seems like a purge or revolution is happening in Korea,' and mentioned this issue during his meeting with the president, stating, 'This president is heading down a path that will face opposition from the United States.'"
Moreover, he emphasized, "An important time is arriving for both governments," stating that "this president must properly understand President Trump's message and ensure a return to the rule of law."
Gingrich had previously claimed in a column published five days ago on the 22nd titled "Strengthening the U.S.-South Korean Alliance" that "the new government's attempt to imprison political opponents and attack and destroy conservative religious groups supporting the opposition is emerging as a new threat to the U.S.-South Korean alliance." In this column, Gingrich remarked, "Considering President Trump's experience of being destroyed through judicial means by the Biden administration and the deep commitment of the United States to religious freedom, the new administration must correct these behaviors for the U.S.-South Korean alliance to continue to be maintained."
He stated, "The excessive abuse of power by the police and attempts to destroy opposition forces are the biggest obstacles to U.S.-South Korean relations," adding, "This issue must be resolved quickly for the alliance between the two countries to be further solidified."