The Democratic Party Seeks Opponent to Kim Jong-in... Attention on the Timing of Lee Hae-chan and Lee Nak-yeon's Entry

'Self-Decision' Caution vs Mixed Expectations for Joining

[Asia Economy Reporter Oh Ju-yeon] As the Democratic Party of Korea is struggling to find a card to counter former Emergency Committee Chairman Kim Jong-in, who has emerged as the 'kingmaker' for the People Power Party, attention is focused on the timing of the return of former leaders Lee Hae-chan and Lee Nak-yeon. However, cautious views that "the final decision lies with the individual" and expectations that "they will join at a not-too-late time" are mixed, leading to divergent prospects.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

According to political circles on the 6th, former leader Lee entered seclusion for a month after the primary election in October and has recently been traveling nationwide to thank supporters for their votes. A lawmaker who supported former leader Lee in the primary said about the timing of his return, "I think he will give an answer in the near future," adding, "Let's wait and see." After visiting Jeju on the 3rd to express gratitude, former leader Lee is expected to take on a key role at the campaign headquarters after completing such local visits.

A representative from former leader Lee's side said, "It is customary to thank those who supported him in the primary," adding, "Since these are irregular schedules, the future schedule is unknown." However, considering the remaining regions such as Incheon and the Chungcheong area where former leader Lee has yet to visit, it is highly likely that the joining time will extend into the new year.

However, some argue that attention should not only be paid to former leader Lee's personal moves but also to various factors such as whether a golden cross occurs, the role of leader Song Young-gil, and the return of former leader Lee Hae-chan. Some voices have emerged saying that those who opposed former leader Lee in the primary should not be left behind like 'defeated soldiers,' urging his return, but it is pointed out that decisions should be made considering the overall party situation, and pushing prematurely will not help.

On the same day, lawmaker Woo Sang-ho appeared on TBS radio and was asked, "When will former leader Lee return?" He replied, "I don't know." Woo predicted, "There is no special momentum, but I guess when the full-scale election campaign starts, he will probably attend the first campaign event, such as a joint rally." He also said, "It is true that (former leader Lee) is not very active."

Regarding the 'Lee Hae-chan return theory,' opinions are also divided. A key member of the Democratic Party campaign headquarters said, "I believe both former leaders Lee Hae-chan and Lee Nak-yeon will return," but was reserved about the timing, saying "soon." However, some argue, "It is most desirable for the candidate to be at the center," and "There is no need to position figures just because Kim Jong-in's team has been promoted by the opposition party." This means there is no need to put 'old boys' at the forefront, as it is judged to go against the moderate and 2030 generation voters' sentiments.