Kim Dong-yeon, the governor of Gyeonggi Province, criticized pastors Jeon Kwang-hoon and Son Hyun-bo for orchestrating social division.
On the 16th, after attending a worship service at a church in Yongin, Governor Kim posted on Facebook, stating, "Some far-right Protestant forces, including Jeon Kwang-hoon and Son Hyun-bo, are inciting hatred and violence in our society, leading to division and confrontation," and added, "They are distorting the Christian spirit of love for Jesus Christ and for people, and bringing shame to the name of Christians."
He stated, "The love of Jesus has been thoroughly betrayed. The doctrine of love, peace, and justice is ruthlessly trampled, and the language of hatred, annihilation, and prejudice is rampant," and urged, "Jeon Kwang-hoon and Son Hyun-bo should repent and stop orchestrating social division."
He also said, "I prayed heavily like never before in my 53 years as a Christian, entrusting that we could establish justice again and achieve national unity while observing Sunday worship."
Governor Kim remarked, "The roots of our Christianity are large and deep. We led the March 1st Movement with principles of nonviolence and peace, and even after liberation, we laid the cornerstone of a just community by standing with the poor and those in need."
He continued, "I earnestly appeal to the congregation, let us turn our backs on the provocation of that 'hired shepherd.' Let us unite so that the love and message of Jesus can take root in this land."