Jeong Cheong-rae, Kim Nam-hee Clash Over 'One-Person, One-Vote' System, Widening Party Rift

A contentious debate over the 'one-person, one-vote' system for party members is intensifying within South Korea's Democratic Party as its national convention approaches. The internal conflict has surfaced publicly after party leader Jeong Cheong-rae openly criticized lawmakers who raised concerns about the voting system.

Jeong Cheong-rae defended the 'one-person, one-vote' system, which he has championed, stating on Facebook that it is "democracy itself" and "must be protected." His remarks were a direct response to internal criticism, particularly from lawmakers like Jeon Hyun-hee and Kim Nam-hee, who argued for a decision-making structure that reflects diverse voices.

In response to Jeong's public criticism, lawmaker Kim Nam-hee took to X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, questioning the party leader's approach. "Shouldn't a party leader communicate with party lawmakers before publicly targeting them by name?" Kim asked. "Your public criticism is shocking. I request a public apology and explanation."

Lawmaker Jeon Hyun-hee also voiced her dismay, criticizing the party leader for creating a non-existent "crime of undermining the one-person, one-vote system" to publicly attack fellow party members and sow division. The escalating dispute highlights a significant internal rift within the Democratic Party as it prepares for its leadership elections.

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Shouldn't a party leader communicate with party lawmakers before publicly targeting them by name? Your public criticism is shocking. I request a public apology and explanation.