Korean Party Leaders Song Eon-seok and Jeong Jeom-sik Resign, Call for New Beginning

6.3 local elections prompted the resignation of Song Eon-seok, floor leader of the People Power Party, and Jeong Jeom-sik, the party's policy chief.

During a party meeting on June 5, Song announced, "I wish to resign from my position as floor leader." He added, "The results of this election clearly reflect the will of the people. It is a great victory for the wise citizens. The public did not give overwhelming power to any one party or faction, reminding us that the principles of checks and balances and democracy are important." He emphasized that the People Power Party must reflect, innovate, and re-engage with the public, stating, "I believe our party needs a new beginning," and expressed hope for the swift election of a new floor leader to move the party forward. Song's resignation comes ten days before the end of his term on June 15.

Jeong also stepped down from his position on the same day. In a post on Facebook, he reflected, "I began this journey with a serious sense of responsibility to fill the void left by my predecessor's resignation in January." He noted that he dedicated his efforts to developing policies that would provide tangible benefits to the public. Jeong expressed gratitude to his fellow lawmakers, party officials, and the public for their support during his tenure, stating, "Although I am stepping down from my title, I will continue to fulfill my role in the field of people's livelihoods."

Kwak Gyu-taek, the party's floor spokesperson, spoke to reporters after the meeting about the timing for electing a new floor leader, suggesting it could happen early next week. He mentioned that the floor leader election management committee would hold its first meeting that day to establish a timeline for the election.