'100 Days in Office' Lee Jun-seok: "We Will Complete Irreversible Reforms and Win the Presidential Election"

Lee Jun-seok, leader of the People Power Party, holds a press conference marking 100 days since his inauguration at the central party office in Yeouido, Seoul, on the 17th. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kum Boryeong] Lee Jun-seok, leader of the People Power Party, emphasized the party's 'irreversible change' and pledged victory in next year's presidential election.

On the morning of the 17th, Lee held a '100-day inauguration press conference' at the National Assembly, stating, "We must advance reforms to an extent that the Democratic Party of Korea cannot follow," and added, "We will complete irreversible political reform with a determined attitude and win the election." The following day, on the 18th, Lee marks his 100th day in office.

Lee explained, "Behind the enthusiastic support of the younger generation comes high expectations, and if the will for change and reform weakens after winning once following four election defeats, the younger generation can always make a different choice."

In particular, he brought to the forefront the 'Basic Qualification Examination for Public Office Candidates,' which faced the most organizational resistance among the changes he proposed during his 100 days. Lee pledged this system as a campaign promise at the party convention to generally improve the capabilities of those running for public office. Some top committee members opposed this, causing controversy. Lee said, "I was criticized for repeatedly mentioning issues related to local elections when we need to win the presidential election, but there is no reason to view this dichotomously from the start," adding, "No citizen would dislike party members who want to become elected officials showing loyalty to party branch chiefs rather than changing to self-development for strengthening their own capabilities."

Lee also mentioned that he did not exercise his authority in appointing spokespersons, saying, "If there is anything I can offer to show the party's changing image and to lead more participation from the younger generation, I will always do so," and urged, "I ask other party members to also gradually relinquish some of their authority."