Presidential Candidates Unite in "Strong Regret" Over Ukraine Invasion... Focus Differs

Lee Jae-myung Supply Chain Inspection
Yoon Seok-yeol Reconsiders Declaration of End of War
Sim Sang-jung US Responsibility Theory
Ahn Cheol-soo Demands Government Position

[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Chae-eun] Presidential candidates have unanimously voiced their condemnation of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, the focus among the candidates differed: 'Supply Chain Review' (Lee Jae-myung), 'Reconsideration of the Declaration of the End of War' (Yoon Seok-youl), 'U.S. Responsibility Theory' (Sim Sang-jung), and 'Demand for Government Position' (Ahn Cheol-soo).

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, expressed regret toward Russia on the 24th during an emergency security and economic joint meeting, stating, "Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty must be respected." He also called for measures, expressing concern about the impact on domestic industries. He said, "We must reassess the supply chains of raw materials such as crude oil and the food security situation in preparation for the prolonged crisis," adding, "It is necessary to identify the difficulties faced by export-import companies affected by the war and economic sanctions and implement urgent measures such as emergency financial support. Special attention should be paid to the materials, parts, and equipment industries to ensure no difficulties in business operations."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Yoon Seok-youl, the People Power Party candidate, stated at an emergency countermeasure meeting on the 25th regarding the Ukraine situation, "We must cooperate with liberal countries that respect international law, including allied countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Japan, for a peaceful resolution of this crisis." However, Yoon emphasized, "We must clearly recognize that this is a vivid lesson for us surrounded by great powers," and added, "The government should abandon its obsession with the declaration of the end of war and, based on the South Korea-U.S. alliance, prevent North Korean provocations and implement a practical diplomatic strategy to stabilize the Korean Peninsula."

Simsangjeong, the Justice Party presidential candidate, is appealing for support on the 23rd at Mangwon Market in Mapo-gu, Seoul. Photo by the National Assembly Press Photographers Group

Sim Sang-jung, the Justice Party candidate, highlighted the 'U.S. responsibility theory.' On the 24th, she posted on social media, "The reckless expansion of U.S. alliances and unilateral dominance through a strategy to encircle Russia since the Cold War created this crisis," adding, "This scenario is not impossible in Asia either." Ahn Cheol-soo, the People's Party candidate, demanded a clear government stance. Through social media, he said, "The world's democracy and the autonomy and independence of all peoples and nations must be protected," but also stated, "In this critical international situation that could escalate into World War III, the Blue House must clearly disclose what preparations it is making and how."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

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