[Insight & Opinion] The Song Young-gil Factor and the Democratic Party's Choice

Since candidate Lee Jae-myung's defeat in the 20th presidential election, an unusual trend has been observed within the Democratic Party. Although it was a narrow loss, interest in Lee Jae-myung both inside and outside the party showed no signs of fading, as if the reality of the presidential defeat had been forgotten. In particular, there was an unprecedented consolidation of support centered around women in their 20s. Another notable point was the considerable public regret over former leader Song Young-gil’s sudden resignation, taking responsibility for the election loss. It was even said that the applause for “well-fought but lost” (Jjeotjalsa) was largely due to Song’s efforts. Despite stepping down, Song was expected to serve as a catalyst leading to the withdrawal of the 586 generation as well. This seemed to be the fate of Song Young-gil, who represented the 586 generation after the presidential defeat.

However, perhaps because the Democratic Party’s mood shifted to “let’s try again” despite the loss, the way the emergency committee was formed and its members resemble a “return to the old Democratic Party.” This means there is little difference from before the presidential defeat. Moreover, Song Young-gil, who had declared his withdrawal, suddenly reversed course and announced his candidacy for the Seoul mayoral election. Song insisted this was a “sacrifice” for the party. This, too, is just an excuse typical of the old Democratic Party style. What I do is a sacrifice, but if others do it, it would be seen as “overambition.”

There is no denying Song Young-gil’s dedication during the 20th presidential election. His qualities and abilities are generally well-regarded, which is why he is considered a strong potential presidential candidate in the future. However, Song’s current “sacrifice” is far from resonating with the public. Even if people empathize ten times over, gaining the support of Seoul citizens will be even more difficult. It is hard to find any justification for it. Furthermore, his statement that “since the official application process was completed according to party rules, the primary should proceed accordingly” is excessive. Whether or not to hold a primary is not a decision for Song, who is a prospective candidate, but for the Democratic Party’s nomination committee for the June 1 local elections.

Song Young-gil questioned who could be free from responsibility for the presidential defeat. This is not wrong. However, it is not something the party leader at the time of the presidential election should say. If that is the argument, then why did he resign immediately after the defeat? This is not a matter of logic but politics. It means looking at things from the public’s perspective. If the party leader does not take responsibility for the presidential defeat first, then who should? Party members? Or the already disbanded campaign staff? This is not a statement befitting Song Young-gil. The sudden change in his stance is all the more puzzling.

The June 1 local elections are just about 50 days away. It is common sense that the ruling party, the People Power Party, has the advantage immediately after the presidential election. The “convention effect” of the new government’s inauguration will also be significant. There will also be growing calls to complete the regime change by replacing local powers. Except for some outstanding candidates and certain regions, the Democratic Party is bound to struggle in the competition for candidates. However, the situation has changed considerably recently. There are many voices of concern and checks against the Yoon Suk-yeol government, and support for the Democratic Party and former candidate Lee Jae-myung remains strong. Moreover, any policy confusion or personnel screening failures after the new government’s launch could directly trigger a backlash from public opinion.

At this very moment, the “Song Young-gil variable” has emerged. Therefore, it is necessary to look not only at the Seoul mayoral election but the entire June 1 local elections. The key is whether the Democratic Party can produce results that make it a strong check-and-balance force in this election. Song Young-gil is at the center of this. The party must field a candidate who can at least resonate with voters, if not inspire them. It would be good if Song can fulfill this role, but if he falls short, other options must be considered. We must face the fact that public perception of the Democratic Party is becoming increasingly cynical. If the party fails in the June 1 local elections and only then tastes the bitter reality, it would be nothing less than a betrayal of party members and supporters. Now, what will be done? It is time for the Democratic Party leadership, which has declared an “emergency,” to make truly extraordinary decisions.

Park Sang-byeong (Political Commentator)

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