The Democratic Party of Korea and the People Power Party on the 25th (local time) spoke with one voice on the shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner venue in the United States, saying, "In no case can indiscriminate violence and terror be tolerated."
Kang Jun-hyeon, the Democratic Party senior spokesperson, said in a written briefing on the 26th, "We are relieved that the situation did not escalate into a serious bloodshed and has come to a close," and added, "We offer our condolences to President Trump and White House officials who must have felt anxiety."
Kang said, "The moment one tries to resolve conflict through violence, peace is not guaranteed," stressing, "It is time to recall the basic political principle that differences must be overcome through a process of rational dialogue and democratic compromise."
Kang added, "We hope this incident becomes a turning point to root out expressing one's views through terror," and said, "The Democratic Party will also use this as an opportunity to reflect on and put into practice the political principles of peace and democracy."
People Power Party spokesperson Cho Yong-sul said, "This shooting is a serious crime that must be strongly condemned regardless of political stance," adding, "We extend our deepest sympathies to U.S. citizens and President Donald Trump, who must have been greatly shocked."
Cho said, "In a democratic society, conflicts and differences must be resolved through institutions and dialogue," noting, "The moment political opposition or social discontent is expressed through physical means, the community's order collapses and the foundation of democracy is also gravely threatened."
Cho added, "This is not an issue confined to a particular individual but a common threat that we must all guard against," and said, "Violence can never defeat democracy. Once again, we strongly condemn this violent act of terror."
Earlier that day at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C., gunshots rang out during the White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) dinner, causing a commotion as attendees, including President Trump and the first lady, were evacuated. It was confirmed that President Trump and other key attendees were not injured.