President Lee Jae-myung urged his supporters on September 19 to abandon hate, sarcasm, and emotional criticism, calling instead for rational critique based on facts and affection, as well as dignified persuasion and warm appeals.
In a post titled 'Friend of the President' on his X (formerly Twitter) account, he stated, "The only desire that led me to this position was the aspiration to change the world, driven by the people."
He acknowledged the significant role played by his comrades who have stood by him through both laughter and tears, adding, "Even now, as numerous reforms face backlash, it is my supporters, including friends on social media, who provide the strongest justification and persuasion for these reforms."
Earlier, President Lee had quoted a post from an X user, but after it was revealed that the author had used derogatory terms in another post, he deleted the citation amid growing controversy.
He expressed disappointment over the controversy that arose from his citation, stating, "It is regrettable and unfortunate in many ways. When quoting someone on Twitter, it is impossible to verify every past post and expression of the author."
He clarified, "Quoting an anonymous post refers to the content itself, not an endorsement or agreement with all the author's claims and writings. Nevertheless, I express regret for those who may have been hurt by the author's other posts."
Referring to his supporters as 'friends of the president,' he urged them to be mindful of their words and actions.
"We are comrades who rely on each other to achieve our dreams and act together," he said. "Therefore, I want you to think and act as if you are Lee Jae-myung, and you are the president."
He posed a rhetorical question, saying, "There is a saying that you can know a person by their friends. If a president is seen conversing with someone who frequently uses abusive language and derogatory terms, how will that president be perceived by the public?"
He emphasized that the rough behavior of the president's friends does not expand support and empathy but instead becomes a source of incitement to hatred and a justification for criticism against the president. "Ironically, this puts the president in a difficult position and is likely what those who wish to divide our camp desire," he added.
President Lee pointed out that attacking supporters while pretending to be one is a cheap and effective tactic that has been used historically to create internal division and conflict. He noted, "Fostering conflict and hostility through abusive language, sarcasm, and hate only reduces allies and increases enemies."
He concluded that such actions ultimately do not aid reform and unity but rather raise obstacles, stating, "All of them are citizens of South Korea, and they are people we will need to persuade and work with someday."
President Lee remarked, "No matter how great the differences within us who wish to change the world, they are not greater than the differences with those we must overcome." He suggested reflecting on the reasons for disbanding the 'Finger Revolution Brigade.'
He reiterated, "I am a president of unity who must serve all citizens, and I am a president of reform who must realize the dreams of all who wish for a better world. You, together with me, are the friends of the president who will achieve that goal."
Furthermore, he emphasized, "We are no longer a presidential candidate who must fight to win; we are already a president who must take infinite responsibility for the world."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.