Jo·Chu·Song Start Campaigning for General Election... Democratic Party's Dilemma

Possibility of Creating a Proportional Representation Party by Song Young-gil and Cho Kuk
Increasing Presence Ahead of the 22nd General Election

The so-called 'Jo·Chu·Song (Jo Guk, Chu Mi-ae, Song Young-gil)' have begun public activities ahead of next year's general election, putting the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) in a dilemma. While their actions receive strong support from the DPK's hardcore base, they may negatively impact the party's efforts to expand its appeal to moderate voters.

All three have indirectly or directly hinted at running in next year's general election, drawing political attention to whether the DPK will ally with them. For now, the DPK appears to be keeping its distance from the trio and closely monitoring public opinion trends.

Former DPK leader Song Young-gil has recently been actively appearing on broadcasts, strongly criticizing the government and ruling party. On the 9th, he caused controversy after it was revealed that he called Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon a "brat" and "arrogant kid" at a book launch event. Song left the DPK in April.

Song suggested the possibility of running in next year's election by forming a new proportional representation party. In an interview with SBS Radio on the 14th, he said, "I believe a reformist party with 47 proportional representation seats that can properly fight against prosecutorial dictatorship and lead the DPK is necessary," adding, "A nationwide new party will inevitably be formed, and I am seriously considering this myself."

Former Representative Song Young-gil is responding to a supporter’s question while protesting against the prosecution in front of the Central District Prosecutors' Office in Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the morning of the 11th of last month.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

There is also talk in political circles about the possibility of former Justice Minister Jo Guk forming a new party. Like Song, Jo has been continuing public activities, including holding a book launch recently.

On the 6th, Jo appeared on the YouTube channel 'Kim Eo-jun's Humility is Difficult News Factory' and said, "I am currently on trial, and I will make every effort to legally explain and clarify the situation," adding, "If this is not accepted, I am considering finding a non-legal way to restore my honor," thereby hinting at a run in the general election.

Former Minister Chu Mi-ae is drawing attention for a possible run in a local constituency. She previously served as a member of the National Assembly for Gwangjin District in Seoul. At a book launch event for Cho Seung-hyun, head of the Political Future Research Institute, on the 6th, Chu said, "People always regret later that 'Chu Mi-ae was right,' but we should not create situations to regret in the first place," hinting at her candidacy. She has also been raising her profile by posting consecutive criticisms of the Yoon Seok-yeol administration and the People Power Party on social media.

In response to the trio's election moves, the DPK is currently keeping its distance but leaving room for possible alliances. On the 13th, DPK floor leader Hong Ik-pyo said in an interview with YTN Radio regarding Jo's possible candidacy, "It is a personal decision, so I cannot comment on it at this moment," adding, "I think we will collectively consider, on a broad scale, how the democratic camp, including our party and the broader opposition, should proceed."

However, some within the DPK express concerns about the risks posed by Jo, Chu, and Song. Former Blue House Chief of Public Communication Park Soo-hyun appeared on YTN News Q and said, "I am from the Chungcheong region, and politicians from regions like Chungcheong, Yeongnam, and Gangwon, where the DPK's political terrain is unfavorable, feel very anxious when there is noise from the central party or headquarters," adding, "I think it would be better if they consider the party from the perspective of the average DPK member and speak accordingly, and I believe they will exercise wisdom so as not to cause significant harm to the entire progressive camp."