Lee Cheol-woo, the governor of North Gyeongsang Province, was reported to the police for allegedly violating political neutrality by singing the national anthem at a rally opposing the impeachment of former President Yoon Seok-youl, but he was acquitted.
According to police and other sources on the 17th, the North Gyeongsang Provincial Police Agency recently concluded the investigation into Governor Lee's case, which had been under investigation for violations of the Local Government Act, without any charges. The police explained that they considered the provisions in the Local Government Act that exempt elected officials from political neutrality obligations.
Governor Lee was reported by a citizen after singing the national anthem and making remarks at a rally opposing the impeachment of former President Yoon on Feb. 8 at the Dongdaegu Station Lee & Ko. The complainant, a resident from outside North Gyeongsang Province, reportedly filed the complaint believing that Governor Lee's actions violated provisions against political activities and collective actions by public officials.
Governor Lee noted through his social media (SNS) that "this incident originated from the reckless complaints and malicious instigation of certain leftist forces, which are far removed from the essence of a public official's political neutrality."
Governor Lee stated, "The national anthem is a sacred song that unites the hearts of all citizens of the Republic of Korea, transcending specific political ideologies," adding, "I merely wished to inspire national unity and patriotism with a pure heart." He continued, "Attempts to create confusion among the public and undermine my honor through baseless claims and malicious instigation cannot be tolerated."
Governor Lee also contrasted his actions with those of Lee Jae-myung, then-mayor of Seongnam, who reportedly made overt political remarks during the impeachment of former President Park Geun-hye and incited division among the public, stating, "I will continue to be unwavering in my commitment to uphold liberal democracy and maintain national unity."
Governor Lee was among the eight candidates who advanced to the first primary of the People Power Party for the 21st presidential election. The People Power Party plans to announce four candidates for the second primary on the 22nd after conducting a candidate vision competition, debates, and opinion polls.