"Please Make Me President Now"... Lee Jae-myung, Words Fans Said After Resigning as Village Chief

Lee Jae-myung Fan Club Announces Intention to Step Down as 'Ijjang'
"Decision Made Considering Many Tasks That Require Focus"

Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, stepped down from his position as head of the fan club Jaemyeongne Maeul on the 16th. This move is interpreted as considering the possibility of an 'early presidential election.'

On the same day, Lee posted on the fan cafe site titled "Greetings after a long time. This is Lee Jae-myung," stating, "There are many things I need to take care of these days," and "Therefore, I would like to express my regret in stepping down from the position of head of Jaemyeongne Maeul."

Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is attending the 13th plenary session of the 418th National Assembly (regular session) held at the National Assembly on the 28th. Photo by Kim Hyun-min

He said, "In fact, being the head does not mean exercising any authority, but given the extraordinary times, I hope you understand this as my determination to focus more on my duties," and added, "After the presidential election defeat, I was bowing my head in apology, but I clearly remember the spring-like love from all of you who lifted me up again, so please do not worry."

Until now, factions within the Democratic Party opposing Lee Jae-myung have persistently argued that he should step down from the head position. The reason was that a symbolic measure to suppress the strong fandom should be taken.

Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is speaking at the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly on the 16th. Photo by Kim Hyun-min

The fan club also feels regret but agrees that he should let go. A notice on the cafe bulletin board stated, "(Leader Lee) deserves to receive support and love from all the people of the Republic of Korea beyond Jaemyeongne Maeul," and "Please become the president now." It also added, "The position of head of Jaemyeongne Maeul is honorary," and "As long as Jaemyeongne Maeul exists, he will remain the unique honorary head forever."

A representative from Lee’s side explained, "There was a burden in belonging to a specific community, but given the very difficult situation now and the many tasks that require focus, after much consideration, he decided to take this step."