"I am also a betrayer to the people who desired new politics"… Choi Jae-hyung declares sudden disbandment of presidential campaign camp

"Disbanding Presidential Campaign, But Not Giving Up on Election"
"Will Take New Methods, New Paths"

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] Former Board of Audit and Inspection Chairman Choi Jae-hyung announced the disbandment of his presidential campaign on the 14th. He intends to dismantle the camp that relied on established politicians and return to his original resolve to stand alone.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

On the same day, Choi stated through social media (SNS), "I am disbanding the Choi Jae-hyung campaign," adding, "This does not mean giving up the presidential race, but rather, I plan to take a new path and a new approach to succeed in the race."

He said, "After entering politics, joining a party abruptly, and declaring my candidacy, I went through a harsh initiation in this new political environment," and added, "I ended up relying heavily on established politicians around me. In the process, the public’s expectations of me gradually faded, leading to the current situation." Choi evaluated, "All the causes lie with me as the candidate, and blaming others will not solve anything."

Previously, Choi’s campaign had engaged in rule disputes, advocating for the introduction of anti-reverse selection clauses due to their advantage within the People Power Party’s support base, and launched attacks against rival candidates such as Hong Joon-pyo and Yoo Seung-min, accusing them of 'betrayal.' Regarding these decisions, he expressed regret but admitted he could not escape the framework of established politics. Moreover, contrary to earlier expectations of being a Plan B upon entering politics, his approval ratings have also been declining.

Choi lamented, "Looking back to when I first started, I see myself running without remembering the fundamental reason why I should be in politics," and said, "I disappointed many who expected new politics from me and became a betrayer to the people yearning for new politics."

He stated, "At this moment, my current state is entirely due to my shortcomings, but if our campaign continues as it is, there seems to be no hope for me or for you," and declared, "From now on, I am disbanding the Choi Jae-hyung campaign. I will stand alone." Choi added, "I will go among the people to listen to the voices of the public that I have not heard so far," and said, "I hope this decision will be a seed of hope not only for regime change but also for party reform and political change."

Choi expressed his intention to open the door to ordinary citizens and campaign staff, stating that instead of relying on established politicians, he will embark on new politics.

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