Democratic Party seeks progressive alliances, but Jo Guk Innovation Party demands trust first

Kim Min-seok, the new leader of South Korea's Democratic Party, has initiated a push for broader alliances with progressive parties, establishing a "Grand Unity Promotion Group" directly under his office. This move signals an effort to consolidate the progressive political front, potentially in preparation for future elections like the Seoul mayoral by-election in April and the 2028 general election.

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We will start building a bridge for the future with reform and progressive parties.

However, the Jo Guk Innovation Party offered a lukewarm reception. The party issued a statement expressing regret over the Democratic Party's unilateral announcement of an alliance-focused organization and its personnel. During Kim's first meeting with Jo Guk Innovation Party leader Shin Jang-shik, the divergence in their approaches to cooperation became evident. Kim emphasized respect for the Innovation Party's independent path while seeking discussions on joint efforts, but also pointed to unresolved issues, such as the dual party membership of some individuals, which arose during the Democratic Party's leadership convention.

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We express regret over the unilateral announcement of an organization and personnel responsible for cooperation with the Jo Guk Innovation Party.

Shin Jang-shik stressed the need for healing and trust-building before any substantive alliance could be formed. He highlighted that past conflicts, including the failed merger in February and the dispute over candidate unification in the Pyeongtaek B constituency by-election, have created a rift that needs mending. The leader of the Progressive Party, Kim Jong-hoon, also welcomed the idea of a "Grand Unity Promotion Group" but called for a restoration of genuine, practical alliances, noting that previous collaborations had become nominal.

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The wounds between the two parties must be healed first. Trust must be restored.

Meanwhile, a planned meeting between Kim Min-seok and Lee Jun-seok, leader of the Reform Party, was canceled at the Reform Party's request, with no official reason given. The Democratic Party also announced the formation of a task force to address issues like dual membership and questionable party entries, led by Supreme Council member Park Sun-won.

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The Grand Unity Promotion Group proposal is welcome.