Speculation on Extending Lee Nak-yeon's Term Emerges Ahead of By-Election

[Asia Economy Reporter Dongwoo Lee] The debate over extending the term of Lee Nak-yeon, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is emerging.

According to political circles on the 16th, the issue began when Kim Tae-nyeon, the party floor leader of the Democratic Party, mentioned in a media interview that "It might be better for Leader Lee to responsibly carry out the by-election and complete his term."

According to the Democratic Party's constitution, party leadership and presidential candidacy are separated. Therefore, Leader Lee must resign before March 9 next year, one year prior, to run in the 2022 presidential election.

As the Seoul and Busan mayoral elections are scheduled for April 7, less than a month away, and the by-election has grown in importance as a preliminary battle for the next presidential election, there is an argument that maintaining Leader Lee's system is preferable.

However, Kim Tae-nyeon's remarks are known to be a personal suggestion.

Within the party, evaluations are divided regarding the feasibility of this proposal. It is explained that there is a cautious atmosphere because the relevant party constitution clause aims to ensure fairness in the presidential candidate primary.

There is also an opinion that a compromise plan, where Leader Lee steps down but takes on the role of the election committee chairman to oversee the by-election, might be more realistic.

Meanwhile, if Leader Lee steps down before March 9, Kim Tae-nyeon, the floor leader, will assume the role of acting party leader.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.