Kweon Seong-dong, the floor leader of the People Power Party, said regarding the death of former lawmaker Jang Je-won, who was under police investigation for sexual assault allegations, "I feel deeply saddened by this unfortunate death" and noted that he has plans to visit the funeral home.
After the general meeting of the floor leadership on that morning, Kweon Seong-dong spoke with reporters about the death of former lawmaker Jang, saying, "First of all, I feel deeply saddened by this unfortunate death," and added, "We need to consider the National Assembly schedule, but I intend to pay my respects if possible." Kweon and Jang were regarded as key figures of the 'pro-Yoon (pro-Yoon Seok-youl) faction' and were once referred to as "eternal brothers."
Officials from the ruling party also expressed their condolences.
Former People Power Party lawmaker Ha Tae-kyung wrote on Facebook that "Sadly, he has left amidst great controversy, but I feel there should be at least one person to recall political memories with him, so I am sending my condolences." He recalled, "The Jang Je-won I experienced and remember was a talented and loyal politician, a decisive figure who did not retreat in several political crises and faced them head-on."
Lee Soo-jung, the People Power Party's chairperson of the Suwon city council, who is a former professor of criminal psychology at Kyonggi University, also posted on Facebook, "I can't believe there is no other solution. I sincerely feel sorry. I pray for the deceased's soul" and added, "Please ensure the safety of the victims."
Meanwhile, former lawmaker Jang, who served as a three-term member of the National Assembly, was accused in November 2015 of sexual violence against secretary A while serving as vice president at a university in Busan. Jang has consistently denied the allegations, but he was found dead the previous day around 11:40 p.m. in an officetel in Gangdong District, Seoul.