Jeong Cheong-rae, a member of the Democratic Party, resigned from his leadership position on June 24, amid rising factional tensions during his final Supreme Council meeting. The pro-Myeong faction pressured for non-candidacy, while the pro-Cheong faction urged respect for the party leader.
During the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly, Jeong announced his resignation. His decision is interpreted as a hint at a potential re-election bid ahead of the party convention scheduled for August 17. Candidates are expected to resign to participate in the election preparation committee and election management committee, making his resignation anticipated. The Democratic Party plans to hold a party affairs committee meeting on June 26 to discuss related matters.
Supreme Council member Kang Deuk-gu remarked during the meeting, "The party leader has faced a challenging year," but expressed disappointment over the lack of discussion with council members regarding the merger issue and by-election strategies. He stated, "The sovereignty of party members should not be concentrated in the hands of a few," and announced he would not run for the Supreme Council election, taking responsibility for the local election results. Previously, Supreme Council member Hwang Myeong-seon had also indicated his intention not to run, putting pressure on Jeong.
Kang added, "The public did not vote for the Democratic Party in this local election; they voted for President Lee. The ruling party's leadership should focus on successful governance rather than competing with the president."
In response, pro-Cheong faction member Moon Jeong-bok countered, stating, "President Lee is the captain of South Korea, and Jeong Cheong-rae is the captain of the Democratic Party."
After the council members concluded their remarks, Jeong expressed his resignation, stating, "Jeong Cheong-rae and President Lee are eternal political partners. I, Jeong Cheong-rae, will be the one to protect President Lee until the end." This statement is seen as an effort to resolve factional conflicts and rally support ahead of the party convention.
Meanwhile, with Jeong's resignation, Han Byeong-do has assumed the role of acting floor leader.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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