Lee Nak-yeon: "Even if I die, I will protect Moon... I cannot betray him"

Former leader of the Democratic Party Lee Nak-yeon is responding to reporters' questions as he leaves his home in Jongno-gu, Seoul, after completing self-quarantine on the 15th. Photo by the National Assembly Press Photographers Association

[Asia Economy Reporter Heo Midam] Former Democratic Party leader Lee Nak-yeon reportedly said on the 15th, "Even if it costs me my life, I will protect President Moon Jae-in."

After completing self-quarantine that day, Lee met with about 20 lawmakers from the Lee Nak-yeon faction at his office in Mapo, Seoul, and made this remark, according to multiple attendees.

When opinions arose that differentiation from President Moon was necessary as a presidential candidate, Lee reportedly responded, "I served as the second-in-command for more than half of the Moon Jae-in administration, so saying otherwise is fraud. I cannot betray him."

However, he also stated, "I will make positive policy differentiations," indicating that if there are any flaws in President Moon's policies, he intends to supplement them from a policy perspective.

Additionally, Lee reportedly said, "I will do my best to recreate the administration," and "I will take care of people's livelihoods. I will do my utmost to propose solutions to the issues in people's lives."

Former leader of the Democratic Party Lee Nak-yeon is leaving his home in Jongno-gu, Seoul, after completing self-quarantine on the 15th. Photo by the National Assembly Press Photographers Association

Earlier, regarding criticisms that there is a gap between party sentiment and public opinion following the April 7 by-elections, Lee said, "I do not think party sentiment and public opinion differ significantly."

He told reporters in front of his home that afternoon, "However, party sentiment appears in various forms, and when expressing it, it would be better for the party to base it on facts and express it with restraint."

Regarding the controversy over 'text bomb' messages from hardline party members, he said, "Making efforts to maintain restraint will be more helpful in gaining persuasiveness," but emphasized, "Nevertheless, the opinions of party members must be respected."