Han Byeong-do, the acting leader of the Democratic Party, emphasized that the upcoming party convention on August 17 should focus on unity rather than rivalry. He stated, "The reason for competition is not to bring each other down, but to create a strong, unified front." His comments come amid rising factional tensions within the party as the convention approaches.
During a policy coordination meeting at the National Assembly on June 25, Han remarked, "This convention, which will elect a new leadership, should be a celebration for the people, where the dignity of competition and the value of harmony coexist."
He further noted, "The Democratic Party has always been strongest when it has come together after being apart, from the late Kim Dae-jung and Roh Moo-hyun to former President Moon Jae-in and now President Lee Jae-myung."
Han stressed the importance of mutual respect among party members, saying, "Even if we compete fiercely, we must respect each other's commitment to the public and party members. We must meet as one team at the end of this competition."
He also clarified that the convention is not merely a contest to determine a winner, but an opportunity for the Democratic Party to demonstrate its responsibility as a governing party to the public.
Meanwhile, Han took over as acting leader following the resignation announcement of lawmaker Jeong Cheong-rae the previous day. This has led to speculation about Jeong's bid for re-election, with potential challengers including lawmakers Song Young-gil and Kim Min-seok.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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