Lee Calls People Power Party Candidate Replacement a "Palace Coup for a Particular Individual"

"The Party of Rebellion Endorses a Candidate of Rebellion"

Lee Jaemyung, the presidential candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea, commented on May 10 regarding the People Power Party's presidential candidate replacement crisis, saying, "It is a kind of palace coup."

Speaking to reporters in Jinju, South Gyeongsang Province, Lee stated, "For the sake of a particular individual who effectively controls the party, they overturned the lawfully and legitimately elected candidate for illegitimate reasons in the middle of the night."

Yonhap News

Lee further remarked, "The party of rebellion has enthroned a candidate of rebellion. I cannot help but laugh at the idea that a candidate of rebellion from the party of rebellion claims to take responsibility for a democratic republic." He continued, "A political party is an important institution that supports a democratic society. If that party is not democratic, the country's democracy cannot function properly."

Lee also emphasized, "This is something that must never be tolerated, neither for the sake of the Republic of Korea nor for our democracy. Any rebellion must be thoroughly suppressed."

Meanwhile, during a campaign event in Changnyeong County, South Gyeongsang Province, earlier that morning, Lee mentioned a recent phone call with former Daegu Mayor Hong Junpyo. Regarding his statement that "we must cooperate," Lee said, "I believe it would be good if an outstanding figure like Representative Hong would join us."

Lee explained that during his conversation with former Mayor Hong, "We shared concerns about the serious damage being done to democracy." He added, "He also said that if we unite regardless of political orientation and govern solely for the nation, we could achieve results, enjoy high approval ratings, and become a successful president."