Who is the New Democratic Party Chief in South Korea?
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Synopsis
In a significant political shift in South Korea, Jung Chung-rae has been elected as the new leader of the ruling Democratic Party. This transformation signals a new direction for the party, emphasizing member empowerment and reform.
Key Takeaways
- Jung Chung-rae elected as DP leader.
- Secured 61.74% of votes at the convention.
- Plans to empower dues-paying members.
- Commits to judicial and media reforms.
- Stressed collaboration with President Lee Jae Myung.
Seoul, Aug 2 (NationPress) Jung Chung-rae, a four-term lawmaker from South Korea, has been elected as the new leader of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) on Saturday.
The 60-year-old politician secured 61.74% of the votes during the national party convention held at KINTEX in Goyang, located northwest of Seoul.
Jung takes over the leadership from Lee Jae Myung, who became President in June.
In the voting, Rep. Park Chan-dae finished a distant second with 38.26% of the votes.
The election results were determined by a combination of votes from DP delegates (15%), dues-paying members (55%), and a public poll (30%).
Jung received 66.48% support from dues-paying members, 46.91% from delegates, and 60.46% in the public poll. Leading up to the convention, Jung promised to empower dues-paying members, marking a shift from a focus on lawmakers and delegates, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
In his victory speech, Jung stated, "My election is a victory for DP members who yearn for a new era of party member sovereignty and reflects the public's desire for the success of the Lee Jae Myung government." He pledged to fully dedicate himself as the DP's chairman and serve the wishes of the people and party members.
Jung also committed to completing reforms in the prosecution, media, and judiciary before the Chuseok holiday in early October.
He added, "Once the party convention concludes, I will initiate task forces for reforms in the prosecution, media, and judiciary."
The new DP leader emphasized the importance of aligning closely with the president, stating, "The success of the Lee administration is vital for the success of the DP and vice versa." Jung expressed his commitment to ensuring the party, government, and president function as a cohesive team, promising to support President Lee Jae Myung so he can focus on leading the nation.
The opposition People Power Party (PPP) congratulated Jung on his election and encouraged him to respect the PPP as a partner.
PPP spokesperson Kwak Kyu-taek described Jung as "a notable hard-liner within the DP" and expressed concerns that Jung may rally his hawkish supporters and adopt a confrontational stance towards the opposition party.
Kwak stated, "If the DP focuses on developing policies that unite the people and improve their livelihoods, instead of engaging in political battles, the PPP will provide unconditional cooperation for the welfare of the people and national interests."
Point of View
I recognize Jung Chung-rae's election as a significant moment for the Democratic Party in South Korea. His focus on empowering party members and commitment to reform indicates a shift towards a more inclusive approach in governance. As the country navigates its political landscape, it will be essential to monitor how these changes impact the relationship between the DP and its opposition.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jung Chung-rae?
Jung Chung-rae is a four-term lawmaker in South Korea who has recently been elected as the leader of the Democratic Party (DP).
What percentage of votes did Jung receive?
Jung received 61.74% of the votes during the national party convention.
What reforms did Jung promise to implement?
Jung promised to reform the prosecution, media, and judiciary before the Chuseok holiday in early October.
How does Jung plan to collaborate with the president?
Jung emphasized that the success of the Lee administration is crucial for the DP's success and will work to ensure they function as a cohesive team.
What was the response from the opposition party?
The opposition People Power Party (PPP) congratulated Jung but expressed concerns about his hard-line stance.
