SEOUL, May 14 (AJP) - Democratic Party (DP) presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung called on voters in the southern port city of Busan to deliver a clear judgment on the People Power Party (PPP), taking direct aim at the conservative bloc for its support of former President Yoon Suk Yeol.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Seomyeon on Wednesday, Lee described Busan as a city with a proud democratic history and urged its citizens to reflect on the PPP’s role in backing Yoon, who was impeached in April following his controversial declaration of emergency martial law.
“If the People Power Party truly respects the constitutional order of liberal democracy, it must immediately expel the ringleader of the military coup, Yoon Suk Yeol,” Lee said.
Turning to the crowd, he continued, “Isn’t this the sacred ground of democracy? Isn’t this the political hometown of Kim Young-sam, a fighter for democracy? I ask you once again to hold the PPP accountable.”
Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, has long been considered a conservative stronghold. Lee’s campaign stop there follows earlier visits to Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province, also known for their conservative leanings.
Lee also called on his supporters to stay vigilant and participate fully in the June 3 election. Quoting former President Kim Dae-jung, he said, “A conscience without action sides with evil.” He added, “Abstaining from voting isn’t neutrality. It’s choosing their side.”
While some experts have projected a comfortable lead for the DP, Lee struck a cautious tone. “This will be a close contest,” he said. “Our goal isn’t a landslide — it’s to win for certain.”
He also urged his supporters to act as if the race could come down to just a few votes. “I’m doing everything I can to win even by a single vote,” he said. “Please help us by thinking we’re short by three votes and secure three more each.”
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
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