Jeong Cheong-rae: 'Negative Campaigns and Conspiracy Theories Have Never Succeeded'
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Jeong Cheong-rae, a candidate for the Democratic Party leadership, urged a halt to negative campaigning and conspiracy theories.
- He stated that such tactics have never led to success and harm the party's unity.
- Jeong called for fair competition and for the Democratic Party to remain true to its principles.
Jeong Cheong-rae, a candidate vying for leadership in the upcoming August 17 convention of South Korea's Democratic Party, has called for an end to negative campaigning and the spread of conspiracy theories. He asserted that these tactics have historically failed to yield success and instead damage the party's collective spirit and overall well-being.
In a social media post, Jeong directly addressed the ongoing political attacks and alleged conspiracies surrounding his candidacy. He emphasized that tearing down opponents harms the community and puts the party at risk. His remarks appear to be a response to recent controversies, including allegations related to the Shincheonji religious group that have surfaced during the convention campaign.
There are no precedents for success through negative campaigning and political conspiracy theories. Attacking opponents harms the community and endangers the party.
Jeong's appeal for a cleaner campaign underscores a desire for fair play and a return to the core values of the Democratic Party. "Let's compete fairly," he urged, adding, "Let's make the Democratic Party truly democratic."
The candidate's call for integrity and principled competition aims to steer the party away from divisive tactics and focus on substantive issues. As the convention approaches, Jeong's message highlights a tension between aggressive campaigning and the desire for internal party harmony and adherence to democratic ideals.
Let's compete fairly. Let's make the Democratic Party truly democratic.
Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.