Former President Yoon Suk Yeol has released a message from prison to young people who have been staging a prolonged protest at Olympic Park demanding a re-election.
Bae Eui-cheol, a lawyer belonging to former President Yoon's legal team, stated on his social media today (August 6) that "upon being informed of the situation of the young people continuing their protests amidst the scorching heat, former President Yoon conveyed a message."
Through the message, former President Yoon said, "No matter how powerful the privileged forces may seem, young people possess the asset of the future," adding, "Since you hold far stronger power than the privileged, there is no need to feel intimidated at all."
He also encouraged the protesters, saying, "Our young people are truly remarkable, admirable, and reliable," and adding, "Even if a gravel path of hardship lies ahead, never be discouraged or lose heart."
At Seoul Olympic Park, protests have continued for over two months, protesting the ballot paper shortage that occurred during the June 3 local elections, demanding an investigation into allegations of election fraud and calling for a re-election.
Amidst the release of former President Yoon's message, the leadership of the People Power Party is also expanding its contact with the rally participants, commonly referred to as the "'Olympic Park' youth."
The People Power Party's Central Women's Committee plans to hold a seminar titled the "2030 Future Agenda Research Institute" on the 10th for 50 female and young party members.
It is reported that leader Jang Dong-hyeok is also coordinating his attendance at this seminar, which will be held under themes such as "Is democracy completed solely through voting?" and "How to protect freedom of speech."
Since the local elections, leader Jang has been intensively targeting the 2030 generation by putting forward issues of voting rights and fairness.
He even invited young YouTubers active at the protest sites to a National Assembly seminar, and a seminar held by a People Power Party lawmaker last month titled "The Olympic Park Youth Speak" was attended by a YouTuber who has advocated for "Yoon Again."
A youth seminar hosted by the People Power Party's External Cooperation Committee last June was also attended by representatives of a youth group classified as far-right, and leader Jang recently even attended a rally in the Busan region hosted by a "Yoon Again"-leaning group.
However, within the party, concerns are also being raised that the participants of the Olympic Park rally do not represent the entire 2030 generation, along with voices warning that "we must not follow in the footsteps of former leader Hwang Kyo-ahn."
Reported by Kim Minjeong | Video by Choi Gang-san | Graphics by Lee Su-min | Produced by SBS Digital News
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