As the Democratic Party prepares for its convention in August, Kim Min-seok, who recently completed his term as Prime Minister, visited the party headquarters and the National Assembly on July 1 to lay the groundwork for his anticipated candidacy. However, he refrained from confirming a specific timeline for his announcement, stating he would clarify his position soon.
After returning to the party, Kim visited the Yeouido headquarters and the National Assembly, encouraging party officials as he began his active campaign.
Speaking to reporters at the party headquarters, Kim expressed his joy, saying, "It feels like coming home. These are comrades who fought together in the presidential election."
While his candidacy appears likely, he noted that discussions about the direction of the future election campaign are ongoing, stating, "Since my candidacy is not confirmed, we are not formally organizing a campaign yet. There are lawmakers discussing the party's direction, and I am consulting with several of them."
When asked about the timing of his candidacy announcement, he replied, "I just handed over the Prime Minister position to the new Prime Minister Han Seung-sook today. I believe we will have a broad discussion on various questions soon."
During his visit to the National Assembly, Kim emphasized his agreement with President Lee Jae-myung and former President Moon Jae-in regarding the importance of party unity, which they highlighted during a recent lunch.
Kim stated, "I fully agree with the thoughts of President Lee and former President Moon. It is essential to achieve national unity based on party unity. We must pursue integration, solidarity, and expansion simultaneously."
Additionally, regarding comments made by former party leader Jeong Cheong-rae in a recent interview, Kim acknowledged his efforts and achievements but noted that the direction and challenges facing the party have changed with the times. He questioned whether the previous leadership style was still necessary, stating, "I wonder if it is essential to have the same leadership style again."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.