Lee Jae-myung to Emphasize 'Unity and Innovation' Message in Candidacy Declaration on the 17th

Lee's side "Will narrow the gap between party sentiment, public opinion, and party thoughts"
Will seek nomination reform centered on Park Chandae

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Jun-yi] Lee Jae-myung, a leading candidate for the Democratic Party leadership, plans to announce his candidacy on the 17th, presenting ‘unity’ and ‘innovation’ as the core keywords. Park Chan-dae, who is a strong contender as his running mate, is also reported to be a figure focused on party unity.

A representative from Lee’s camp said in a phone interview with Asia Economy on the 13th, "(Lee) will thoroughly emphasize unity in his message," adding, "Regardless of pro-Lee or anti-Lee factions, as the opposition party, we must unite to point out the current government’s issues and propose alternatives." He continued, "The biggest problem our party currently faces is that we have failed to respond to pressing issues and have not fulfilled the role of a competent Democratic Party," explaining, "Innovation means narrowing the gap between party sentiment, public opinion, and internal party views."

Lee is also expected to emphasize the message of creating a ‘working National Assembly.’ The representative explained, "If Lee becomes party leader, he will regard policy capability, proposing alternatives, and problem-solving ability as the most important criteria for lawmakers to work effectively."

Regarding the general election nomination rights that come with becoming party leader, he aims for ‘nomination innovation’ based on party unity. This means forming the leadership with a diverse group of lawmakers beyond factions, generations, and regions, rather than nominating only those close to him. Lee’s camp views Park, who is strongly considered as his running mate, as someone who will play a unifying role. The representative said, "Park is a figure who communicates well and maintains good relations with all faction lawmakers within the party," adding, "Park is the most important symbol of unity."

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