Synopsis
On April 10, Lee Jae-myung, the former leader of South Korea's Democratic Party, declared his intention to run for president in the June election, emphasizing his desire to serve the people and address economic issues in the country.Key Takeaways
- Lee Jae-myung is running for the presidency in June.
- He aims to be a significant asset for the nation.
- Economic inequality is a key focus of his campaign.
- He emphasizes foreign policy that prioritizes national interests.
- Lee is currently leading in early polls despite facing scandals.
Seoul, April 10 (NationPress) The former leader of South Korea's Democratic Party, Lee Jae-myung, has officially launched his candidacy for the upcoming presidential election scheduled for June, pledging to be "the best tool" for serving the populace.
Considered a leading contender in the June 3 presidential election, which was prompted by the dismissal of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, Lee made his announcement just a day after resigning as party chairman, according to reports from the Yonhap news agency.
"I do not merely seek a nation that bears the name 'Republic of Korea,' but I aspire to contribute to the creation of a genuine Republic of Korea," Lee declared in a 10-minute video address. "Such a Korea is built by its citizens, and I hope to serve as a significant tool -- the best tool -- for our remarkable people."
He pinpointed economic inequality as the primary source of societal discord in the nation, promising to rejuvenate economic progress through substantial investments while enhancing the quality of life for the populace.
Additionally, Lee committed to pursuing foreign policies centered on national interests, emphasizing the critical bond between South Korea and the United States, as well as trilateral collaboration with Japan.
Officials have announced that he will conduct a press conference at the National Assembly on Friday to outline his vision for the country and introduce his election campaign team.
Lee is currently leading in preliminary opinion polls, although he faces several controversies, including a land development scandal in Seongnam, located south of Seoul.
Previously, Lee narrowly lost the presidential election to Yoon in 2022.
In related news, former President Yoon Suk Yeol is expected to vacate the presidential residence as early as Friday to return to his private home in southern Seoul, following his recent ousting.
An official from the presidential office indicated, "Yoon's exit from the presidential residence is anticipated within this week," with timing expected between Friday and Sunday.
The Presidential Security Service (PSS) has reportedly finalized arrangements for a security team of approximately 40 personnel for Yoon. According to current law, Yoon is entitled to PSS protection for up to 10 years.
Yoon's private residence is situated in the Acrovista apartment complex in Seocho-dong, southern Seoul, where he had resided for six months even after being inaugurated as president in May 2022.
Reports suggest that Yoon and his wife, Kim Keon Hee, are contemplating relocating to another residence in the capital area due to the presence of their 11 pets, as security personnel might create inconveniences for their neighbors.
