Song Young-gil Returns from US Trip, Intensifying South Korean Party Leadership Race

Song Young-gil, a prominent figure in South Korea's Democratic Party, is set to return from a five-day trip to the United States on June 27. His arrival is expected to ignite a heated contest for the party's leadership, with Kim Min-seok and Jeong Cheong-rae already vying for the top spot.

Song, who had previously stated his decision on running for party leader would depend on Jeong Cheong-rae's actions, is now likely to announce his intentions soon. Jeong had recently resigned from his leadership position, clearing a path for Song's potential candidacy. Both Jeong and Kim have been actively seeking support from party members, attending workshops and events across the country.

Song's strategy includes engaging directly with party members, starting with a town hall meeting in Jeonju on June 28. He is also considering attending a workshop for newly elected youth officials in Gyeonggi Province on the same day. This event could potentially bring all three contenders, Song, Kim, and Jeong, together, intensifying the competition.

While some analysts initially predicted Song might act as a "pacemaker" for Kim, supporting him before potentially withdrawing, there's a growing possibility that Song will compete through to the final round. A source close to the pro-Lee Jae-myung faction suggested that Song might see more benefit in completing the race, regardless of the outcome, and express his support for Kim later if necessary.