"Secluded for 3-4 Weeks After Primary... Currently Serving as Senior Advisor to the Campaign Headquarters"
Former Democratic Party presidential primary candidate Lee Nak-yeon visited the April 3rd Peace Park in Bonggae-dong, Jeju City, on the morning of the 3rd to pay respects and then gave an interview to reporters. [Image source=Yonhap News]
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Seohyun] Former Democratic Party leader Lee Nak-yeon expressed regret regarding the controversy surrounding Cho Dong-yeon, co-chairman of Lee Jae-myung's Democratic Party presidential campaign committee and the campaign's "first recruited talent."
Lee, who serves as an advisor to the campaign committee, made the remarks on the 3rd after paying respects at the Jeju 4·3 Peace Park and meeting with reporters. When asked about the noise surrounding the campaign committee's formation, including Cho Dong-yeon's resignation, he said, "I find it regrettable." He added, "I hope they handle things more carefully so as not to cause concern among the public."
Regarding his visit to Jeju that day, the former leader explained, "I was in seclusion for about 3 to 4 weeks after the primary election, and now I am quietly visiting various regions to greet those who have supported me." He added, "Today's visit to Jeju is part of that schedule."
When asked about his future support plans for candidate Lee, he said, "I have already joined as a standing advisor to the campaign committee, and I accepted the candidate's request to serve as a standing advisor." He continued, "I will act according to my conscience and sense of responsibility, and I believe I have never failed to do so."
There had been speculation that Lee, originally from Yeonggwang, Jeonnam, might join candidate Lee's visit to Gwangju and Jeonnam to appeal for support, but he did not appear.
In response to a question about whether he should support more actively, he said, "There needs to be a discussion about what specifically should be done," and added, "Aren't the nine standing advisors doing similar activities?" When asked if he might increase his support activities if requested, he replied, "Have I ever not done so until now?"
After paying respects at the 4·3 Peace Park and holding a private meeting with supporters, former leader Lee is scheduled to leave Jeju.
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