Joo Ho-young Faces 'Yeongnam Party' Controversy Head-On... "Judging by Origin Region Is an Old Method"

Joo Ho-young, a member of the People Power Party, holds a press conference related to his declaration of candidacy for the June party convention at the National Assembly Communication Office on the 10th. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kum Boryeong] Former floor leader of the People Power Party, Joo Ho-young, officially announced his candidacy for the party leadership election scheduled for next month. Although there has been controversy over him being a 'reinstated Yeongnam Party' due to his Daegu·Gyeongbuk (TK) origin, Joo chose to confront the issue head-on, stating, "Judging people by their region of origin is an outdated method."

At around 2 p.m. on the 10th, Joo held a press conference at the National Assembly announcing his candidacy for party leader, saying, "I will achieve regime change through innovation, integration, and great harmony," and "I will reclaim the regime and put this country back on the right track."

Joo emphasized, "Today marks the 4th anniversary of the Moon Jae-in administration's inauguration, and I have decided to run in the People Power Party leadership race," adding, "I will accomplish the two tasks of 'innovation and integration.'"

He presented five pledges for party change and reform: a party that practices freedom and fairness, a party that practices centrism and integration, a young party with youth participation, and a smart party centered on openness and communication.

He also highlighted his experience serving as floor leader and acting party leader over the past year. Joo said, "I have deeply understood our party's weaknesses and reinforcement measures and have given it much thought," adding, "With only about two months left until the presidential primary begins, my ability to immediately implement innovation and integration without wasting time is my unique strength."

He actively refuted the 'Yeongnam Party' controversy. In a meeting with reporters after the press conference, he said, "Judging people by their region of origin is an old-fashioned method," and "We should look at who is more innovative and who can best achieve the biggest task of winning the presidential election. Talking about region of origin is regressive and divisive." He added, "I consider such talk within our party to be self-harm and divisive behavior."

Regarding former lawmaker Na Kyung-won's potential candidacy for party leader, he drew a line. Joo said, "At a time when she has not clearly stated her intention to run, there are many candidates, so I think it is inappropriate to compare with a specific person."

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