Lee Yong-ju, who raised allegations of preferential hiring for Moon Jun-yong, says "I will support the success of the Moon Jae-in administration"

Assemblyman Lee Yong-ju Holds Press Conference at Yeosu City Hall on the 22nd Morning: "Public Opinion Urges Joining the Democratic Party"
Regarding Drunk Driving Incident: "I Will Not Repeat the Mistake"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Wondara] Independent lawmaker Lee Yong-ju has once again explored rejoining the Democratic Party of Korea.

On the morning of the 22nd, Lee held a press conference at Yeosu City Hall to announce his candidacy, stating, "The main recommendation from the public was to promptly join the Democratic Party and lend support," adding, "I believe that intention aligns with mine."

Lee left the Democratic Party in 2016 and was elected under the People's Party. During the 2017 presidential election, he repeatedly raised allegations of preferential hiring involving Moon Joon-yong, son of President Moon Jae-in, at the Korea Employment Information Service. In response, Moon Jae-in's campaign filed a complaint against Lee with the prosecution in May 2017.

However, Lee cited the example of Yeosu Mayor Kwon Oh-bong, who was elected as an independent and later rejoined the Democratic Party, arguing that "rejoining is not impossible." He also said, "I have received invitations to join from Democratic Party city and provincial council members, and the central party has explored the possibility of my joining," emphasizing, "While it is not appropriate to disclose the progress, what matters is whether my political stance aligns with the Democratic Party's ideology."

He stated, "The success of the Moon Jae-in administration is necessary for a greater and better Yeosu," and added, "I will enter the 21st National Assembly to contribute more powerfully to completing the reforms of the Moon administration and to the reestablishment of the progressive camp's government."

At the press conference, Lee attracted attention by using a banner with the phrase "Lee Yong-ju Democratic" on it. He remarked, "I brought blue clothes symbolizing the Democratic Party today but forgot to wear them."

Meanwhile, regarding his past DUI incident, Lee apologized, saying, "I sincerely apologize once again for disappointing the citizens due to my fault. I will never repeat such mistakes." On the issue of participating in the proposed unified new party currently under discussion in political circles, he said, "Reflecting the public sentiment in Honam, even if the unified new party is formed, it would be difficult for me to join."