8·15 Gwangbokjeol Message: Opposition Presidential Candidates Call for "Regime Change"

▲Former Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-yeol is paying respects at the grave of Independence Activist Ahn Jung-geun during his visit to Hyochang Park in Yongsan-gu, Seoul on the 15th. (Provided by the National Camp)

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Hyun-joo] On the occasion of the 76th anniversary of the August 15 Liberation Day, opposition presidential candidates issued messages pointing out the problems of the current administration and unanimously called for a change of government.

Former Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-yeol said on Facebook, "It was our people who saved the country in despair," adding, "However, the trials and sufferings before us at this moment are also indescribable." He continued, "The logic of factions that takes precedence over the lives of the people is driving the people to the brink," and stated, "We will start again from common sense. We will build a fair Republic of Korea together with the people."

Former lawmaker Yoo Seung-min said, "The constitutional values of the democratic republic are being damaged," emphasizing, "We will definitely restore national dignity as a truly independent and democratic republic and create a prosperous and strong country."

Former Board of Audit and Inspection Chairman Choi Jae-hyung introduced the "21st Century New Korea-Japan Partnership Joint Declaration" announced in 1998 by then-President Kim Dae-jung and Japanese Prime Minister Obuchi, stating, "I will make efforts to engage in dialogue with the Japanese government immediately upon taking office."

Former Jeju Governor Won Hee-ryong also pointed out, "We are now facing challenges as great and difficult as those faced by our ancestors and predecessors," adding, "The country's security has become precarious due to the administration's subservience and incompetent diplomacy." He further said, "We will boldly reform the national contradictions that weigh us down and protect the country's safety against the rapidly changing international situation."