Jang Dong-hyuk, spokesperson and political affairs director for the People Power Party, directly addressed allegations of exaggerating the rank of a U.S. State Department official he met during a recent visit. He dismissed the claims amid growing scrutiny.
Social Media Response
Jang took to social media to clarify the matter. He urged followers to verify details on the U.S. State Department website, stating, “Public diplomacy leadership consists of about two individuals.” He added, “The rank of that position is clearly assistant secretary or higher.”
This post followed his eight-night, 10-day trip to the United States, where he referenced a meeting with a “U.S. State Department assistant secretary.” Critics questioned the accuracy, sparking debate.
Party Clarifications and U.S. Side Insights
U.S. officials described the individual as a personal acquaintance involved in public diplomacy efforts, not a formal chief of staff. Jang countered that he encountered two State Department personnel: one a close contact at assistant secretary level and another a senior deputy director met upon arrival.
The People Power Party issued a statement explaining that the first-day meeting involved an acting assistant secretary who participated in discussions under that title, justifying the description.
Internal Party Reflections
Senior deputy spokesperson Park Sung-hoon acknowledged potential missteps during an interview with reporters. He noted, “Some inaccuracies occurred in the spokesperson’s U.S. visit process, and if any part led to misunderstandings, we apologize. We will work harder to address party members’ concerns.”
Jang emphasized forward momentum, stating, “Citizens will focus on diplomatic accomplishments as we build results through proper titles and engagements.”
