[Lee Jae-myung 2nd Term] Livelihood Achievements, Judicial Risks, and Opposition Struggles... The 3 Major Tasks Lee Jae-myung Must Solve

With the Democratic Party of Korea completing the formation of Lee Jae-myung's second-term system, preparations for regaining power have begun. Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the Democratic Party, faces the task of demonstrating the party's capability as a governing party through achievements in public welfare, while also addressing judicial risks and establishing a front against the ruling party.

On the 19th, at the first Supreme Council meeting, Lee said, "The purpose of politics, above all, is the issue of livelihood, or 'Meoksa-nism' (livelihood-ism)." He added, "We must save the lives of people pushed to the brink and turn despair into hope." He emphasized, "Now is the time to deliver results through action."

The newly appointed leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, Lee Jae-myung, and the new leadership members paid their respects at the National Cemetery on the 19th. Leader Lee and the attendees, including the Supreme Council members, are seen walking out from the Memorial Tower after paying their respects. Photo by Heo Young-han younghan@

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With the establishment of the second-term system, Lee now faces the task of showing 'results' in public welfare issues. Since the Democratic Party's landslide victory in the 22nd general election, the National Assembly, controlled by the opposition, has been marked by unilateral dominance by the opposition, President Yoon Seok-youl's vetoes, and unlimited debate (filibuster) by the ruling party. This political reality, where not a single piece of legislation related to public welfare has been passed, has increased public dissatisfaction. In this context, Lee proposed in his acceptance speech for party leader meetings with President Yoon Seok-youl and Han Dong-hoon, leader of the People Power Party. It is expected that through unrestricted talks, he will seek to take the initiative on economic issues such as public welfare and the political situation.

In political circles, it is considered more likely that common ground will be sought in meetings with Han Dong-hoon rather than with President Yoon. Choi Byung-chun, director of the New Growth Research Institute, said, "If Lee and Han are to dream a 'Yongkkum' (dragon dream), they must strive to improve the lives of the people," adding, "It is highly likely that they will strengthen their 'policy offensive.' That would also be advantageous for them." Previously, Lee had proposed points of agreement by presenting progressive positions on easing financial investment income tax and comprehensive real estate tax. Regarding this, Han expressed his acceptance at the Supreme Council meeting, saying, "I warmly welcome the proposal for a meeting between the two party leaders," and added, "I hope we can set a time and place soon."

The new leadership of the Democratic Party of Korea, including Representative Lee Jae-myung and the Supreme Council members, paid respects at the Seoul National Cemetery on the 19th. The guestbook entry left by Representative Lee after the visit.

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Lee's judicial risks are expected to become a 'variable' that will permeate the future political landscape. The first trial verdict on charges of violating the Public Official Election Act and perjury inducement is expected as early as October. Until now, the focus was on the unfairness of the prosecution's investigation, but now there is significant concern both inside and outside because the judiciary's judgment must be awaited. The realization of judicial risks increases the likelihood of another upheaval within the Democratic Party.

The speed and intensity of attacks against the ruling party must also be moderated. The opposition has already raised the level of offensive to the extent of openly discussing President Yoon's impeachment or constitutional amendments to shorten his term. As confirmed in the recent Supreme Council election, where 'hardline voices' gained attention, the challenge lies in whether the party can adjust the pace and intensity in connection with public welfare issues.

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