Lee Jae Myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, commented on May 23 regarding the potential unification of Kim Moonsoo, the People Power Party candidate, and Lee Junseok, the Reform Party candidate, stating, "It is expected that candidate Lee will ultimately seek unification with the forces behind the rebellion."
Lee Jae Myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, visited Bongha Village in Jinyeong-eup, Gimhae City, Gyeongnam Province on the 23rd and observed a moment of silence at the grave of former President Roh Moo Hyun. Photo by Yonhap News
After paying his respects at the grave of former President Roh Moo Hyun in Bongha Village, Gimhae City, Gyeongnam Province, Lee met with reporters and said, "It seems the public will have to choose between the forces behind the rebellion and those who defend the constitutional order."
Regarding recent trends in candidate approval ratings in opinion polls, Lee responded, "As a candidate, all I can do is always do my best."
Lee said, "These days, politics seems to be turning into a war, and it makes me uncomfortable," adding, "By eliminating, antagonizing, and hating the opponent, we are moving in a direction that ultimately harms the people instead of achieving unity." He continued, "Respecting one's opponent is fundamental in politics, but there have been several instances in history where there were wrongful attempts to eliminate the opponent," he said, "and former President Roh was one of the victims."
Lee stated, "Former President Roh was persecuted by political prosecutors and passed away. He dreamed of a world where people could truly live and made a new mark in Korean politics. He also devised a plan for Korea to enter the global stage through the Korea-US FTA." He added, "Every year on May 23, my heart aches, and as I remember former President Roh, I feel a renewed determination to create a true Korea where the people are respected."
Regarding his meeting with Kwon Yangsook, Lee said, "(Mrs. Kwon) appeared to be in good health. She encouraged me, saying that there is hope thanks to the strength of the people."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
