Ahn Cheol-soo: "Support Rate Stalling? Now Is Not the Time for Analysis"

Q&A with Reporters After New Year's Press Conference on the 25th
"Natural" Decision of No Candidacy in By-Election Areas of Democratic Party Lawmakers

Ahn Cheol-soo, the presidential candidate of the People’s Party, is holding a New Year press conference at the National Assembly on the 25th. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kum Bo-ryeong] Ahn Cheol-soo, the presidential candidate of the People’s Party, commented on his approval rating, which is hovering around 10%, saying, "At this point, it is not a time when any analysis is possible."

On the 25th, after a New Year press conference held at the National Assembly, when reporters asked him, "What is the reason for the stagnation in your approval rating?" Ahn replied, "Whether it is currently on the rise or stagnating, it is not yet time to judge. Probably after observing for about one to two more weeks and around after the Lunar New Year, it will be possible to analyze the overall trend."

Ahn explained, "Until this week and the Lunar New Year holiday, I will diligently explain my thoughts and who I am to the public. My visits to various regions also carried that intention. When people meet and talk with me, they accurately understand what kind of person I am."

Comparing himself with Yoon Seok-youl, the presidential candidate of the People Power Party, Ahn said, "I have not been involved in any scandals over the past 10 years. Morally, I have many more strengths and no family risks," adding, "I have started a company on my own, earned money, and paid salaries to employees."

Regarding the Democratic Party’s decision not to field candidates in three constituencies for the National Assembly by-elections, Ahn stated, "It is only natural that the Democratic Party does not nominate candidates in places where they bear responsibility," and added, "Similarly, I think the People Power Party should not field candidates in by-elections caused by their own mistakes."

Ahn emphasized that opposing the labor director system and the time-off system is actually 'pro-labor.' He said, "The current labor policy of the Moon Jae-in administration is a policy that further solidifies the vested interests of privileged workers. It is a policy for only 10% of all workers," and continued, "Where did the harm go? The remaining 90% of workers are suffering. I am approaching this from the perspective of representing 90% of the workers."