Lee Hye-hoon. Yonhap News

Recently, the actions of politician Lee Hye-hoon have been frequently described as 'betrayal.' However, before resorting to emotional labeling, it is necessary to consider whether the term 'betrayal' is indeed appropriate for this choice. Betrayal, at the very least, implies the existence of values that one sought to uphold based on conviction, and it only occurs when those values are consciously abandoned.

In this regard, the current situation involving Lee Hye-hoon is hardly even worthy of the term betrayal. This is merely a choice driven by personal comfort and self-preservation. It is the result of moving to a safe and comfortable position near power, devoid of any philosophy or greater cause. It is not a betrayal of conviction, but rather an absence of conviction to begin with.

Let us recall the symbols of betrayal in history and literature. Judas Iscariot recognized his own sin before the thirty pieces of silver, and Brutus rationalized his choice within the context of the greater cause of the Republic. Even Faust underwent the torment of pledging his soul for the sake of a greater truth. All of them are icons of betrayal, but at least we can glimpse the weight and responsibility of their choices.

In contrast, Lee Hye-hoon's choice is no different from a 'mindless change of heart' where one says, 'Red was best yesterday, but blue was always better today.' It is not a resolute decision born of contemplation, but a manifestation of a self-preserving instinct. The essence of conforming to comfort remains the same, merely substituting 'ministerial post' for Kim Joong-bae's 'diamond.'

The more significant problem is that this is not confined to an individual's personal choices. From the Joseon Dynasty through Japanese colonial rule to the present day, a 'vested interest cartel' has taken root in various parts of our society. For them, the greater cause has always been the safety of individuals and their families. They have been solely focused on becoming the ruling class that hovers around power and lords over the common people. This current situation is merely a reappearance of that true face.

They are more dangerous than overt totalitarianism. While dictatorship can at least be identified as an enemy to be overthrown, these individuals secretly operate by latching onto living power as hosts until they can be exploited. When that power disappears, they have no hesitation in seeking another host.

Politics is an expression of philosophy. Those who have lived under the name of politics must be aware of consistency and responsibility in their political choices. Without even these, they are merely opportunists and self-preservers wearing the guise of politics.

Politicians engrossed in self-preservation and comfort are like cancer to our society. As political and social divisions deepen, second and third Lee Hye-hoons are emerging. What we should offer them is not understanding or tolerance, but a decisive expulsion.

Political Documentary Writer & Spokesperson for the People Power Party Incheon Metropolitan Chapter

◆ Writer Min Byung-gon

Current) Political Documentary Writer

Current) Spokesperson for the People Power Party Incheon Metropolitan Chapter