President Lee Jae Myung mentioned the late former President Roh Moo-hyun and late former Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon in succession, stating his commitment to strengthening communication. Political circles interpreted this as an effort to consolidate his core support base and reinforce the rationale for communication by referencing symbolic figures from the democratic camp.
On the 11th, President Lee posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Former Mayor Park, whom I met at the Seoul Mayor’s Office in the past, once said, ‘I emphasize communication but cannot read comments because malicious accounts flood them with abusive language, making it impossible to use the block function.’” President Lee revealed that he had advised the former mayor at the time, “Spreading filth through abusive language, insults, and sarcasm in the space of communication is not communication but an obstruction of communication. Blocking such filth, rather, enables genuine communication.”
President Lee added, “Just as bad money drives out good, if abusive language and low-level slander are left unchecked, even legitimate accounts will avoid engagement, turning comment sections into dumpsters.” He continued, “It is only natural to expel ruffians who intrude into others’ spaces to hurl abuse and insults.” He repeatedly emphasized that blocking comments does not stifle legitimate criticism. “Of course, we do not block those who express dissent or criticism,” he said. “Opinions that maintain dignity and courtesy, whether ‘u-a-ha-ge’ or ‘jwa-a-ha-ge,’ are always welcome.”
Regarding claims that the term “jwa-a-ha-ge” originated from the right-wing community Ilbe (a right-wing leaning community), President Lee explained, “For reference, ‘jwa-a-ha-ge’ is not a term used by Ilbe but has been used since the time of President Moon Jae-in within the democratic reform camp. It is a playful twist on the word ‘u-a-ha-ge’ (elegant), a form of wordplay.” He added, “Though the world is harsh and busy, I hope people occasionally look up at the clear sky, take in their surroundings, and enjoy humor and wit.”
The previous day, at 10:27 p.m., President Lee posted on X, “I am reminded of former President Roh Moo-hyun, who communicated with the public through comments but faced criticism and mockery for lacking dignity. It is said he refrained from visiting markets to avoid inconveniencing citizens, even during pre-security inspections.” He added, “Politics and power must flow toward the lowest places.”
He further stated, “If the goal is not to create a better world where more people can live happier lives, there is no reason to continue the arduous path of politics.” He emphasized, “The moments I communicate with parents, siblings, and neighbors in narrow alleys—those who are powerless, underprivileged, yet work harder than anyone—feel precious and irreplaceable. In those moments, I reaffirm the heavy responsibility of governance.”
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