New Reform Party presidential candidate Lee Jun-seok apologizes to party members for inappropriate remarks, ”I will not make any excuses” - South Korea

Lee Jun-seok, the presidential candidate of the New Reform Party, was indicted on the party for his explicit and violent comments about women's bodies during the final presidential debate on the 30th.
"I would like to offer my deepest apologies to all those who were hurt by my inappropriate expressions," he said in an email and message sent to party members on the same day.
I have caused disappointment and heartache to many people and I take full responsibility for it. I will not make any excuses."
Prior to this, candidate Lee Jun-seok said, "I apologize to those who felt uncomfortable."
However, he also claimed that the comments posted on an online community by the son of Democratic Party presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung were "expressions that were as pure as possible."
It is analyzed that he took this action to prevent his supporters from losing ground after the controversy grew over his misogynistic remarks during a debate and criticism of him intensified.
Candidate Lee Jun-seok said, "Since I started politics, I have vowed to always stand up straight in front of the people, but I was too enthusiastic and acted carelessly for a moment.
"There was a moment when I was not able to keep that pledge. I will use this incident as an opportunity to be even more restrained and not repeat the same mistake."
He continued, "I am concerned that my words may have left wounds in your hearts and that they may have dampened our passion.
It's all my fault. I'm sorry." Lee Jun-seok also addressed the Democratic Party's push to expel him from the National Assembly, saying, "We will verify the facts and raise a public interest issue.
"In the face of the reality that political retaliation will be used against me for my actions, I must overcome this battle together with you all, which I cannot bear alone," he said.
Candidate Lee Jun-seok said, "Only when I and the New Reform Party exceed 15% (of the presidential vote) can we confidently decide the future of the Republic of Korea.
This will create a bridgehead for us to compete. I bow my head once again and ask you with all my heart and sincerity."