Song Young-gil, a candidate for the leadership of the Democratic Party of Korea, stated on July 26, "We cannot entrust the party to those who undermine President Lee Jae-myung." This remark appears to be a direct criticism of former party leader Jung Cheong-rae amid rising tensions within the party.
In a Facebook post, Song emphasized, "Judicial reform and prosecutorial reform do not belong to any one candidate. They are promises made by all three candidates and a mandate from the party members. No matter who becomes the party leader, reforms will be carried out."
He further asserted, "President Lee is a pillar of the Democratic Party. If that pillar collapses, the reforms and the administration will also fall apart, just like a roof that collapses when its support is gone."
Additionally, he warned, "Reform that merely shouts slogans while shaking the president may receive applause from certain politicians, but it will ultimately lead to defeat in the general elections and a change of government."
Song declared, "I have maintained my loyalty to the president until the end. Please protect President Lee, the pillar of our party. I will not be a leader who shakes the president but rather a leader who firmly supports that pillar to safeguard the party."
Meanwhile, Song has consistently pointed out issues related to Jung Cheong-rae, who has been embroiled in allegations of conflict. In the upcoming party convention, Song, along with former Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, who is aligned with the pro-Lee faction, and Jung, who is associated with the pro-Cheong faction, are competing for the party leadership. Jung has been appealing for support, vowing to protect President Lee, while Song and Kim have publicly criticized him, escalating the conflict.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.