Jung Cheong-rae, a candidate for the leadership of the Democratic Party of Korea, has called for a thorough investigation into allegations of Shincheonji's involvement within the party, stating that such actions put the party at risk.
In a Facebook post on July 26, Jung criticized the allegations as being unfounded and lacking evidence. He emphasized the need for severe disciplinary measures against those who raise such potentially damaging claims, which he believes could lead to the party's downfall.
Jung expressed concern that the upcoming party convention might devolve into a negative event due to the Shincheonji controversy. He urged the individual responsible for creating confusion within the party to apologize to the members and stated that he would await the party's response.
Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Kim Min-seok recently raised the allegations regarding Shincheonji's involvement. Jung's camp has labeled these claims as fake news and has threatened legal action. Kim maintains that his comments were not aimed at any specific candidate but were intended to highlight issues within the party.
In the current party convention, Jung, Kim, and lawmaker Song Young-gil are competing in the final round. Candidates Go Min-jeong and Kim Bo-mi, who advocated for generational change, have been cut from the race.
This party convention has thus become a contest between factions loyal to different leaders. The winner will be determined through a preferential voting system without a runoff.
On Facebook, Jung stated, "This time, the will of the party members will prevail. The 1.6 million eligible party members will outvote 160 lawmakers," urging supporters to utilize their one-person, one-vote power.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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