The Stirring Yeouido as Ding Leaves and Lee Arrives

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy reporters Kang Nahum and Jang Sehee] Amid a critical political phase marked by the start of the second half of the Moon Jae-in administration and the 21st general election, the baton was passed between former and current Prime Ministers Chung Sye-kyun and Lee Nak-yeon on the 14th. Chung’s plan to strengthen the 'responsible prime minister system' and Lee’s 'role in the general election' are intertwined, suggesting significant changes in the political landscape before and after the election.

The National Assembly approved Chung’s appointment as Prime Minister in a plenary session the day before, with 164 votes in favor, 109 against, 1 abstention, and 4 invalid votes out of 278 members present. Accordingly, Chung’s term officially began at midnight on the same day. Immediately after the National Assembly’s approval, Chung told reporters, "I will become a prime minister who serves the people well," expressing his aspirations.

President Moon Jae-in is scheduled to present the appointment letter later that afternoon. Afterwards, Chung will move to the annex of the Government Seoul Office to hold an inauguration ceremony and then begin his official duties as Prime Minister.

With Chung’s appointment, considerable changes are expected in the future cabinet formation and government operations. In particular, the 'responsible prime minister system' is anticipated to be further strengthened. A key Democratic Party official said, "In the second half of the Moon Jae-in administration, there is a realization that the Blue House cannot handle everything. It is nearly impossible for the Blue House to manage the entire state affairs while overseeing the national budget of 513 trillion won. It is a time that requires deep consideration on how to operate the Prime Minister’s Office."

On the same day, a media report stated that before his nomination, Chung requested President Moon to "guarantee the responsible prime minister system." In response, a close aide of Chung said, "The claim that he was promised a responsible prime minister system is premature; it can be interpreted as simply asking to 'handle responsibilities well' and 'be given significant roles.'” Even if Chung’s request is not factual, it indicates a high likelihood that he will be granted considerable authority.

Chung’s intention to strengthen the responsible prime minister system aligns with his 'coalition cabinet' plan revealed during the confirmation hearing. At that time, Chung stated, "We need to form a coalition cabinet with 'political factions' that can jointly take responsibility for and manage state affairs with the ruling party, so that the people’s needs can be met." He intends to actively use the Prime Minister’s exclusive authority to recommend cabinet members to establish cooperative relationships with pro-government parties and ensure stable governance. If a member from an opposition party, rather than the Democratic Party, joins the cabinet, it is expected to bring significant changes to the political landscape within the National Assembly.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Meanwhile, attention is also focused on the actions of former Prime Minister Lee Nak-yeon, who handed over the prime ministerial baton to Chung. The Democratic Party will officially announce Lee’s return to the party at the Supreme Council meeting on the 15th.

Lee recently moved his residence from Seocho, Seoul, to Jongno, Chung’s electoral district, signaling his intention to run in Jongno. This means the baton is being passed not only for the prime ministership but also for the electoral district.

In the Liberty Korea Party, which aims to reclaim Jongno, there is a high possibility that leader Hwang Kyo-ahn will personally enter the race or that a heavyweight candidate will be nominated. Fierce competition with the opposition party is inevitable from the early stages of Lee’s return.

Additionally, Lee is likely to take on a major role overseeing the overall general election strategy. The party is also considering appointing Lee as a co-chairman of the election campaign committee and assigning him to support elections in the metropolitan area.