"Cause of Defeat Is Definitely Lee Nak-yeon" Supporters Protest to Ruling Party Lawmakers via Texts

Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate (right), is shaking hands with Lee Nak-yeon, the general election committee chairman, at the disbandment ceremony of the election committee at the party headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul, on the afternoon of the 10th. Photo by the National Assembly Press Photographers Group

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kang Wooseok] It has been reported that so-called 'text bomb' messages have been pouring in targeting members of the Democratic Party of Korea. The main intent of the messages is to hold Lee Nak-yeon, the Democratic Party's election committee chairman, responsible.

According to TV Chosun, a Democratic Party lawmaker reportedly received hundreds of text messages starting from the 10th. In an interview with the outlet, he said, "Suddenly today, the text bombing started, and I received over 1,000 messages, making it impossible to use my phone or work," adding, "The content was mostly the same, with only slight variations at certain times."

The messages reportedly included phrases such as "The cause of defeat is definitely former leader Lee Nak-yeon" and "Protect Song Young-gil and Choo Mi-ae." Although candidate Lee Jae-myung mentioned at the election committee disbandment ceremony that "everything is my responsibility," there is an interpretation that the blame for this presidential election defeat is being shifted to former leader Lee Nak-yeon and the 'Pro-Moon' faction.

Meanwhile, Lee Nak-yeon's side stated regarding this situation, "During the 78 days of the election campaign, former Prime Minister Lee held a total of 65 rallies, 3 times after being appointed chairman of the National Vision and National Integration Committee, and 62 times after being appointed general election committee chairman," adding, "It is difficult to accept supporters' claims that the cause of defeat lies with former Prime Minister Lee."