Korean Politician Apologizes for Handling of Marine's Death Investigation

On June 29, 2025, Kim Yong-tae, the Emergency Response Committee Chairman of the People Power Party (국민의힘), held a press conference at the National Assembly to address the investigation into the death of a Marine who died in the line of duty. He expressed his sincere apologies to the bereaved families and the public for the distress caused during the investigation process.

During the conference, Kim acknowledged that the party had previously rejected calls for a special investigation into the Marine's death, which occurred during a search operation in Yecheon, North Gyeongsang Province, in July 2023. He stated, "The public has been demanding that the unjust death of a soldier be properly investigated."

Kim pointed out that the party had initially decided to wait for the results of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (공수처) before considering a special investigation. However, he criticized the office for failing to produce any results even after a change in government. He emphasized that the People Power Party should have taken the feelings of the bereaved families and the public into account and sought alternative ways to uncover the truth.

Despite the change in government, the party maintained its stance against a special investigation, and Kim admitted that he did not participate in the vote on the matter, which he deeply regretted. He expressed hope that the truth would eventually come to light through a special investigation, allowing the deceased Marine to rest in peace and restoring the honor of Colonel Park Jeong-hoon, who was involved in the case.

Kim also called for a fundamental reflection on the party's decision-making process, stating that party policies should not suppress the autonomy of its members. He stressed the importance of respecting the principles of member sovereignty, voter orientation, and the autonomy of lawmakers in the decision-making process.

In conclusion, Kim reiterated his apologies to the families of the fallen Marine and expressed a desire for the party to establish a more advanced system for determining party policies in the future.