Seoul: Opposition leader Jang Dong-hyeok announced Monday that he has successfully established a "hotline" with key members of the U.S. Republican Party during his recent visit to the United States. He dismissed criticism that his trip was poorly timed and potentially unproductive, as it occurred less than two months before the June 3 local elections.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Jang of the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) made these remarks at a press conference shortly after returning from his 10-day visit to the U.S. The trip faced scrutiny, particularly after a photo of Jang and PPP Supreme Council member Kim Min-soo in front of the Capitol building in Washington went viral. Critics suggested that the image resembled a photo shoot rather than a diplomatic engagement.
During the press conference at the National Assembly, Jang stated that he met with various individuals from the U.S. government, Congress, and the American establishment, and effectively communicated the party's positions. He emphasized the establishment of a direct line of communication with key Republican figures, aiming to reinforce the South Korea-U.S. alliance amidst what he described as a challenging period under the Lee Jae Myung administration.
Jang justified his U.S. visit as a strategic move ahead of the local elections, asserting that the People Power Party should be evaluated based on its commitment to mending ties with the U.S. He indicated that if the party's involvement is necessary in future diplomatic situations, he would take an active role in resolving issues through direct communication with the U.S.
Addressing the controversy over the viral photo, Jang clarified that the picture was taken during a brief interval between official engagements at Congress. He expressed his hope that the photograph would not detract from the substantial achievements of his U.S. trip.