Song Young-gil criticizes Jeong Cheong-rae's 'irresponsible' election remarks

Democratic Party lawmaker Song Young-gil has sharply criticized former party leader Jeong Cheong-rae for his recent remarks expressing regret over the party's decision to field a candidate in the Pyeongtaek-E constituency during a past by-election. Song deemed Jeong's comments "irresponsible."

Appearing on a radio program, Song invoked a stark analogy, comparing Jeong's statement to a parent regretting giving birth. "It's the same as telling your son, 'I should have aborted you, but I gave birth to you,'" Song stated, defending his strong wording despite the host's observation that the metaphor was harsh. Song questioned the impact of such remarks on party members who had supported the Democratic candidate in that election.

“

It's the same as telling your son, 'I should have aborted you, but I gave birth to you.'

Song further suggested that Jeong might harbor a sense of superiority over President Lee Jae-myung. "Jeong Cheong-rae and I both became lawmakers before the President, and in terms of politics, we were active earlier," Song explained. "So, there's a feeling that [Jeong] perhaps looks down on the President a little."

Jeong's controversial comments were made during a television appearance, where he mused about whether the party might have fared better in local elections had it merged with the Cho Kuk Innovation Party before the Pyeongtaek-E by-election. This has sparked internal debate within the Democratic Party regarding accountability for past electoral outcomes and the appropriate way to discuss internal party matters publicly.

“

There's a feeling that [Jeong] perhaps looks down on the President a little.