Former Democratic Party of Korea leader Jung Chung-rae said he would "take any action available to protect his honor" after lawmaker Song Young-gil said on the morning of the 29th on a radio program that Jung had turned his back on former President Roh Moo-hyun and did not attend the funeral.
On the morning of the 29th, appearing on KBS Radio's "Jeonggyeok Sisa," Song directly targeted Jung, who has been emphasizing the legitimate lineage of the pro-Roh and pro-Moon factions. He said, "Jung could not even attend the funeral because he had turned his back on former President Roh," and added, "If he wants to question legitimate lineage to attack Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, it is hard to make such a claim." However, Jung was in fact known to have attended the funeral.
After the Democratic Party lawmakers' general meeting held at the National Assembly on the 29th, Jung met with reporters and, when asked, "Did you receive an apology from Song?" said, "I do wonder whether it has to go this far," but added, "Since he said he made a false statement, he (Song) will apologize."
Jung then said, "If I do not receive an apology to the end, shouldn't I take the measures I can for my honor?" However, when asked whether he is considering legal action, Jung said, "Wouldn't he apologize before it comes to that?"
Jung went on to explain that he did attend former President Roh's funeral, saying, "I was studying in China at the time, but upon hearing the news, I immediately returned to Korea and went to Bongha Village, and I also took part in operating the Mapo-eul incense altar, the funeral, and the bier ceremony." He added, "Hearing that I did not attend made me think a lot," and said, "It is a truly bitter reality."