Lee Nak-yeon, Final Farewell: "Don't Think the Journey Toward Dreams Has Ended... It Will Be a Journey Without Milestones"

[Asia Economy Reporter Oh Ju-yeon] These were the first words former Democratic Party presidential candidate and former leader Lee Nak-yeon spoke to his supporters at the camp disbandment ceremony on the 14th. This was his first official event after declaring acceptance of the primary results and his last primary schedule. Instead of saying "thank you" or "you worked hard," Lee expressed gratitude and consolation to those who supported him with the word "sorry." While praising his supporters as "people who are more than I deserve" for standing by him, he took full responsibility for his defeat. Seemingly aware of concerns about the 'One Team' raised by some, he comforted them by saying, "We must become one strong river again," but left room for the future by adding, "It will be a journey without a signpost."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

On that day, at the disbandment ceremony held at the Daesan Building in Yeouido in the afternoon, Lee met with party lawmakers and volunteers and said, "I am sorry for running hard and sorry for making this disbandment ceremony of defeat."

He said, "I lost this time, but your beliefs have not failed," and urged, "Do not be discouraged." In an atmosphere that could have become heavy, he even smiled and said, "If discouragement means 'Lee Nak-yeon's heart,' then please continue."

At this event, Lee asked his supporters to uphold the values and spirit of the Democratic Party. He emphasized, "Those values and spirit will inevitably be constantly challenged, but if we keep our center and protect them, the Democratic Party can endure forever." In this process, Lee urged humility before the people.

He said, "Among the many signs of politicians, the people are most sensitive to detecting arrogance in politicians. The moment they sense arrogance, the people immediately perceive it, recognize it quickly, and judge it."

He continued, "Neither the Democratic Party nor anyone should be arrogant before the people and party members. Moreover, we must never belittle the people who supported us. We must be infinitely humble and infinitely grateful to them."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

He also said, "Do not hurt comrades," adding, "We may compete temporarily, but we must become one strong river again. To humiliate, trample on dignity, and drag out even false facts to destroy each other as if we will never see each other again is not only cruel as human beings but also unworthy of politics." Lee said, "In future contests, even if we do not achieve our goals this time, winning or losing is not the only thing that matters. Even if we find ourselves in difficult situations, we must not become servile. This is something we must carry with us."

Lee said, "Do not think the journey toward the dream has ended," and added, "For the first time as an adult, I am embarking on a journey without a signpost." He said, "My resume is known for having no gaps. I have never been unemployed, but this time I have become so for the first time," and added, "If it is unavoidable, I think we must accept it willingly. I will gladly embark on this new voyage before me, uncertain, with no set destination or path."

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