'89.77% Vote Share' Democratic Party Presidential Candidate Lee Jae Myung Says 'Whether Progressive or Conservative, We Must Unite as Much as Possible'(Comprehensive Report 2)

On Han Duck Soo's Candidacy Rumors: "Return of Rebellious Forces"
Ministry of Economy and Finance Accused of Acting Like a King Among Government Departments
Reform Announced

Lee Jae Myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, stated on April 27, "Whether it is the Progressive Party or the Conservative Party, those who work together to overcome rebellion and restore constitutional order must unite their efforts as much as possible."

Lee Jae Myung, who was selected as the Democratic Party presidential candidate, is delivering his acceptance speech at the "Democratic Party 21st Presidential Election Candidate Selection Joint Rally for the Seoul Metropolitan Area, Gangwon, and Jeju" held on April 27 at KINTEX in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province. 2025.4.27. Photo by Kang Jin Hyung

Lee made these remarks while speaking to reporters at the Seoul Metropolitan Area, Gangwon, and Jeju primary and final candidate selection convention held at KINTEX in Ilsan, Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, on the afternoon of April 27. He said, "Whether it is solidarity, alliance, or anything else, shouldn't we work together?"

Regarding speculation about Han Duck Soo, the acting president and prime minister, running for office, Lee commented, "It seems that there is a constant attempt by rebellious forces to return." He further pointed out, "There is public suspicion that the person who is supposed to pass judgment is constantly seeking opportunities to participate as a player."

On the issue of reforming the Ministry of Economy and Finance, Lee criticized, "There is a perception that the ministry is acting like a king among government departments." He added, "Its authority is excessively concentrated, which creates the potential for abuse."

Lee stated, "I believe the reason the people and party members chose me is to lead Korea, which is currently facing difficulties, onto a new cultural path," and added, "I feel a heavy sense of responsibility."

Lee recorded a final vote share of 89.77%, securing his selection as the Democratic Party's presidential candidate. This is the highest vote share ever recorded in a Democratic Party primary since democratization in 1987. Kim Dong Yeon, governor of Gyeonggi Province, received a combined 6.87%, while Kim Kyung Soo, former governor of South Gyeongsang Province, received 3.36%.

Combining the results of the first through fourth regional primaries, Lee's total vote share among delegates, dues-paying party members, and overseas Koreans was calculated at 90.40%. In the public opinion poll conducted among the general public, he received 89.21% of the votes.