Cho Kuk: Charges Against President Lee Should Be Dropped; Urges Support for Government Success

Cho Kuk, the leader of the Rebuilding Korea Party, is actively campaigning in Pyeongtaek for a crucial National Assembly by-election, presenting his candidacy as integral to the success of President Lee Jae-myung's administration. In an interview with The Hankyoreh, Cho framed the election not merely as a local contest but as a referendum on support for the President, urging voters to choose candidates who will actively contribute to the government's agenda rather than passively rely on it.

Cho expressed his belief that the Pyeongtaek race, initially appearing multi-candidate, will ultimately narrow down to a two-way contest between himself and Kim Yong-nam of the Democratic Party. He criticized the incumbent and other candidates, suggesting their support is waning. Cho also addressed the proposed 'President Lee Jae-myung Fabrication Prosecution Truth Investigation Special Prosecutor Act,' stating that the dismissal of charges against the President is a necessary conclusion. However, he proposed deferring a final decision on the bill's optimal path until after the election, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of its legal and constitutional integrity.

Furthermore, Cho Kuk addressed criticisms of his campaign's focus on past statements by his opponent, Kim Yong-nam, regarding sensitive historical events. Cho defended this approach as necessary candidate vetting, asserting that all candidates should be subject to scrutiny. He reiterated his own apologies for past controversies, contrasting it with what he perceives as his opponent's lack of accountability. Cho's campaign strategy hinges on positioning himself as the most capable candidate to advance President Lee's vision and contribute to the establishment of a '5th Democratic Government,' emphasizing his commitment to addressing local issues like Pyeongtaek's severe public transportation problems.