Jung Cheong-rae, the leader of the Democratic Party, resigned from his position on the 24th, ahead of the party convention scheduled for August 17. His resignation is seen as a move to express his intention to seek re-election.
During a Supreme Council meeting at the National Assembly, Jung stated, "I will do my best for the success of the Lee Jae-myung administration." He added, "I am the one who will protect President Lee until the end," emphasizing their shared political fate and unity. He highlighted his role as the chair of the Legal Affairs Committee during the emergency martial law on December 3, which led to the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol.
Jung also remarked, "Even if the path is thorny, I will trust only in public sentiment and the party's will and continue on my path," suggesting his intention to challenge for re-election. However, party spokesperson Kang Jun-hyuk stated after the meeting that Jung would express his position on candidacy directly, indicating a cautious approach.
Reflecting on his tenure, Jung noted, "I raised the banner of a strong reformist leader, and despite facing resistance both inside and outside the party, I worked diligently."
The upcoming convention is expected to see challenges for party leadership from figures including Jung, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, and former leader Song Young-gil.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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