Koo Ja-yeol, the Democratic Party’s candidate for Wonju mayor in the June 3 local elections, apologized after reports that a family member drove under the influence.
On May 3, according to reporting by Cookie News and a written statement from Koo, he said, “I take the matter of a family-related DUI very seriously.”
Koo apologized to residents for the concern caused, saying, “Driving under the influence is unacceptable in any circumstance. Driving while hungover is no exception.”
He added, “This principle applies even to family members.”
Koo said he has long emphasized eradicating drunk driving and is treating this case with particular gravity. He apologized again and vowed to take stricter, more responsible measures to protect public safety going forward.
Earlier, on May 1, the People Power Party’s Gangwon provincial candidate review committee issued a statement urging Koo to “clearly explain to the public the reports alleging his son drove under the influence.”
Meanwhile, on the 28th of last month, doctors diagnosed Koo with a vitreous hemorrhage and a retinal tear. He underwent surgery at their recommendation and is currently recovering.
