Former PM Kim Min-seok Launches Bid for Democratic Party Leadership, Criticizes Internal Strife

Former Prime Minister Kim Min-seok has officially declared his intention to run for the leadership of the Democratic Party, becoming the first candidate to formally announce his bid for the August 17 convention. Kim stated his decision stems from a "boundless responsibility" for the success of the current government under President Lee Jae-myung.

"My candidacy for party leader is a product of a heavy sense of responsibility, prepared for fierce internal debate for the future of our party," Kim announced. He emphasized that the most crucial task for the ruling Democratic Party is innovation to ensure the success of President Lee's administration. Kim believes that without this internal reform, achieving national governance success, winning the general election, and maintaining party unity will be difficult.

“

My candidacy for party leader is a product of a heavy sense of responsibility, prepared for fierce internal debate for the future of our party.

Kim Min-seok also directed criticism towards internal party dynamics, stating that "self-centered politics have thrown the party and government cooperation into disarray over the past year." This statement is widely interpreted as a veiled jab at Chung Sye-kyun, another prominent figure within the party. Kim argued that the party has failed to translate public support for the president and government into tangible party support and electoral victories.

“

self-centered politics have thrown the party and government cooperation into disarray over the past year.

Before his announcement, Kim paid his respects at the National 5.18 Cemetery in Gwangju. He laid a wreath and offered incense at the memorial tower before visiting the graves of martyrs Yoon Sang-won and Park Hyun-sook. In the cemetery's guestbook, he inscribed, "The spirit of May 18th transcends history and is now the future," signing off as "Democratic Party Leader Candidate Kim Min-seok."

Kim invoked the legacies of past Democratic leaders, expressing gratitude to former presidents Kim Dae-jung, Roh Moo-hyun, Moon Jae-in, and current President Lee Jae-myung. He pledged to carry forward their spirits and historical contributions as a dedicated party member.

“

The spirit of May 18th transcends history and is now the future.