South Korean party leader backs president's election critique, vows unified support

Jung Cheong-rae, the leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, has aligned himself with President Lee Jae-myung's critical assessment of the party's performance in the recent June 3 local elections and parliamentary by-elections. Jung stated his agreement with President Lee's "evaluation and perception" of the election results, emphasizing a commitment to bolster the 'one voice' among the party, government, and presidential office to support the administration's work.

“

I agree with President Lee's evaluation and perception of the June 3 local elections. We will strengthen the 'one voice' of the party, government, and presidential office to support the work of the Lee Jae-myung government.

This public alignment follows President Lee's remarks on June 8, where he expressed dissatisfaction with the election outcomes, stating that losing winnable races was "at least not a success." Jung's statement marks the first official response from the party leadership since the president's comments. To address the electoral setbacks, Jung announced plans to establish an evaluation committee tasked with producing a white paper. This document will objectively analyze the election results, incorporating diverse perspectives from both internal party members and external experts.

Jung further pledged that the Democratic Party would adopt a more humble and receptive stance towards public sentiment revealed in the elections. He assured that the party would earnestly consider criticisms and admonishments received during the campaign, using them as opportunities to address shortcomings and incorporate valuable feedback. The focus remains on strengthening the unified voice of the party, government, and presidential office to ensure the unwavering support for President Lee's administration and its objective of effective governance.

“

We will create an evaluation committee to objectively diagnose successes and failures, and publish a white paper that includes diverse analyses from external and internal personnel in equal measure.

In addition to the electoral review, Jung highlighted the party's commitment to fulfilling campaign promises. He specifically mentioned plans for regional development initiatives, including support for the integration of Jeonnam and Gwangju, investment in the Saemangeum development project in Jeonbuk, and the construction of a railway network in Gangwon. The party also intends to implement policies such as basic income for rural and fishing communities, aiming to translate electoral pledges into tangible achievements.

“

The Democratic Party will approach the public sentiment confirmed in the local elections with greater humility and a lower stance. We will humbly accept the criticisms and reprimands confirmed during the election process, using them as an opportunity to fill in what is lacking and accept what needs to be accepted.