Kim Nam-guk "Lee Jae-myung June Comeback Theory? No Political Blueprint"

"Lee Focuses on Studying and Communicating with Supporters... Seems Concerned About Political Interpretations"

Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Nam-guk drew a line against the 'Lee Jae-myung comeback theory' circulating in some circles.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Hyun-joo] Kim Nam-guk, a close aide of Lee Jae-myung, the Standing Adviser of the Democratic Party of Korea, drew a line against speculations that Lee would make a comeback in time for the June 1 local elections. Kim, who served as Lee’s chief of staff during the presidential primary, is known as one of Lee’s close associates.

In an interview on the YouTube channel 'Park Si-young TV' on the 21st, Kim shared an update on Lee’s recent status, saying, "He mostly stays at home and keeps a low profile," adding, "He is focusing on studying, communicating with his supporters called 'Gaeddal' (short for 'Daughters of Reform,' referring to Lee’s supporters), and reading books. He said he is not bored at all."

Kim continued, "When I call him, his phone used to never be off, but recently it is often turned off. It seems he is doing a lot of thinking."

When the host asked, "By mid-May, there will inevitably be a flood of requests for campaign support for the local elections, right?" Kim replied, "What I can say clearly is that he has no political blueprint or plans at all," and added, "He is not contemplating anything political himself, but he seems somewhat worried about the political interpretations appearing in the media."

The theory of Lee Jae-myung’s comeback has been steadily mentioned within the party since right after the presidential election. Besides the local election comeback theory, there have been various speculations such as running in the parliamentary by-elections and challenging for party leadership in August.

However, Lee has refrained from public activities and focused solely on communication with his supporters. He enjoys overwhelming support from women in their 20s and 30s, known as 'Gaeddal.'

Meanwhile, Lee posted a tribute on his Facebook page the day before for the late Han Seung-heon, former Chairman of the Board of Audit and Inspection. He wrote, "The footsteps of senior human rights lawyers have always been a guide pointing in the right direction whenever times were tough and exhausting. I will remember and follow your lifelong dedication," expressing condolences for the deceased. This marks 42 days since Lee resumed his Facebook activity, following his remarks at the disbandment ceremony of the election committee on the 10th of last month.

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