Moon Jae-in (64), the presidential candidate of the Minjoo Party of Korea, announced his opposition to same-sex relationships.
In a debate of presidential candidates organized by JTBC, the JoongAng Daily, and the Korean Political Science Association on April 25, Hong Jun-pyo, the candidate of the Liberty Korea Party asked, "Are you against homosexuality?" to which Moon answered, "I am not fond of it." When Hong further questioned, "I'm not asking if you like homosexuality, I am asking you if you are for it or against it," Moon answered, "I am not in favor of legalizing it (homosexuality)."
Hong continued to press Moon mentioning how Park Won-soon, the mayor of Seoul was allowing sexual minorities the right to use Seoul Plaza, to which Moon asked, "How is not discriminating them and allowing them their right to use Seoul Plaza the same as recognizing it (homosexuality)?" repeatedly expressing his opposition to same-sex relationships. When Hong again asked, "Do you think that homosexuality within the military weakens our defense power?" Moon answered, "Yes, I think so." Finally, when Hong again asked, "Are you against homosexuality?" Moon replied, "Yes."
Moon's comments about homosexuality revealed that Moon opposed any discrimination against sexual minorities, but still he did not approve of homosexuality. The comment triggered criticism, for it was made during a public debate by a strong presidential candidate, who was a former human rights lawyer.
Sim Sang-jeung, the presidential candidate of the Justice Party expressed strong regret during the debate. Sim said, "Homosexuality is not an issue we can be in favor of or against. Sexual identity is literally an issue of sexual identity." "I am heterosexual, but I believe the rights and freedom of sexual minorities should be respected," she added. She further said, "I am very disappointed at Moon, who has retreated from the Anti-Discrimination Act he had been promoted since the Roh Moo-hyun government."
Hong Sung-soo, a professor at Sookmyung Women's University, also wrote on Facebook, "If it were Europe, his statement would be regarded as a hateful comment and be subject to punishment." He added, "I am really very disappointed and angry."
Later in the debate, when Hong again asked Moon about homosexuality, Moon said, "I have no intention to legalize same-sex marriage. But I oppose discrimination."