Former South Korean Prime Minister Forms New Party Amidst Opposition

Former South Korean Prime Minister Announces Formation of New Party

Former South Korean Prime Minister, Lee Nak-yeon, has declared the formation of a new political party, expressing his agreement with the composition of the Democratic Party’s emergency committee.

In an interview with Channel A, Lee Nak-yeon stated, “I empathize with the concerns and aspirations of the members of the Democratic Party who have discussed the formation of an emergency committee.” He further added, “If the Democratic Party shows a willingness for radical change by the end of the year, I am willing to engage in dialogue. However, if they remain indecisive, it would be meaningless.”

Regarding the formation of the new party in early next year, Lee Nak-yeon questioned whether the Democratic Party understands the meaning behind giving them until the end of the year. He emphasized that maintaining the current system without significant changes or simply appointing a proxy would be of little significance.

When asked if he would halt his efforts if the new emergency committee is formed after his resignation, Lee Nak-yeon evaded a direct answer and stated, “If the Democratic Party does not show a willingness for radical change, I will not stop what I am doing.”

Over 100 Members of the Democratic Party Sign Petition Opposing the Formation of the New Party

Opposition to Lee Nak-yeon’s new party is growing within the Democratic Party, with over 100 party members signing a petition against its formation.

Democratic Party members, Kang Deok-gu, Kang Joon-hyun, and Lee So-young, have been collecting signatures for a petition titled “Appeal to Suspend Lee Nak-yeon’s New Party Initiative” since the 15th of this month. As of now, more than 100 members have participated in the petition. In their appeal, the three lawmakers stated, “Division will lead to defeat,” and urged Lee Nak-yeon to join forces with the Democratic Party to prevent the incompetence and authoritarianism of the Yoon Seok-yeol government and secure victory in the general elections.

In response to the petition, Lee Nak-yeon expressed his displeasure, stating, “Their attitude is misguided. They should have approached me for a conversation or asked questions instead of discussing among themselves.”

Former National Intelligence Service Chief Advises Lee Nak-yeon Against Forming New Party

Former head of the National Intelligence Service, Park Ji-won, advised Lee Nak-yeon not to embark on the path of forming a new party, cautioning him against potential consequences.

In a recent Facebook post, Park Ji-won addressed Lee Nak-yeon, saying, “Do not embark on a path where you won’t even be able to go ten miles. This is advice from a senior who has walked that path.” Similarly, former Minister of Justice, Cho Kuk, drew a line by stating, “Although I have worked with Lee Nak-yeon in the past, I have no intention of joining his new party.”

Source: Donga Ilbo