Shin Jang-sik has been elected as the new leader of the Justice Innovation Party on July 25.
The party held a national convention at the Suwon Convention Center, where Shin was confirmed as the new leader after running unopposed. He received 96.7% support in the member vote.
Shin stated, "I will pursue a clear path of reform," adding, "When the pillars of moderate pragmatism and reform are firmly established, a government of popular sovereignty can succeed."
He emphasized, "I will open a path of self-reliance with strong roots, as self-reliance is essential for proper solidarity."
In the election for the party's highest council, lawmakers Cha Kyu-geun and Hwang Hyun-sun were elected with 59.4% and 25.7% of the votes, respectively. The new leadership team will consist of five members, including Shin, National Assembly floor leader Kim Jun-hyung, and the two newly elected council members, along with one appointed council member.
Former party leader Cho Kuk, who stepped down following the party's defeat in the June 3 local elections, sent a video message during the convention, urging the party to prepare for a progressive future that anticipates the climate of the times rather than just the weather of the day. He encouraged the party to gradually strengthen its capabilities in preparation for the 2028 general elections.
Earlier, Shin had mentioned at a press conference on July 5 in Yeouido, Seoul, that in light of the 2028 general elections and the 2030 presidential election, there is a need to re-establish a spirit of unity. He suggested that to institutionalize solidarity, changes to party and election laws could be made to implement a runoff voting system, relax negotiation group requirements, and establish an open primary system.
This national convention was held following Cho Kuk's resignation from the leadership position.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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