Jung Chungrae Surprised by "Wang Subak" Attacks: "Situation Has Calmed Down... Should Be Seen as Healthy Competition"

"A Natural Phenomenon During the Election Process"

Jung Chungrae, who has announced his candidacy for the leadership of the Democratic Party of Korea, addressed the issue of having previously been attacked by hardline supporters who labeled him as a "Wang Subak." He explained that this incident occurred during the election campaign among supporters and stated, "The situation, which had intensified, has now calmed down." The term "Subak" is a derogatory nickname referring to those in the party who outwardly appear to support the Democratic Party but are believed to be aligned with the People Power Party, specifically targeting the "anti-Lee Jae-myung" faction.

Jung Chungrae, member of the Democratic Party of Korea.

On the afternoon of June 18, during an appearance on MBC Radio's "Kwon Soonpyo's News High Kick," Jung said, "It seems there were attacks without any basis, claiming 'Jung Chungrae is a Wang Subak.' I was quite surprised myself."

Previously, after Jung announced his bid for party leader, he was attacked by some hardline supporters. They claimed that Jung had criticized President Lee Jaemyung in the past and argued that Park Chandae was the most suitable candidate for the next party leader. As a result, tensions escalated between supporters of Jung and Park.

Regarding this, Jung stated, "Other supporters said, 'If Jung Chungrae is a Wang Subak, then what exactly are we supposed to do?' and the situation was clarified. Now, it seems to have settled down, with people saying things like, 'If you prefer Jung Chungrae's strengths, then vote for him,' so the atmosphere has changed."

He went on to say, "Rather than calling this a conflict, I see it as a natural phenomenon. When an election begins and candidates are announced, everyone has their preferred candidate. Supporters campaign enthusiastically for their chosen candidate, but I don't think this should be described as a conflict. It should be viewed as healthy competition."

Regarding Park Chandae, who is reportedly considering running for party leader, Jung described him as "my closest friend," adding, "He is a truly good person. He has a heart as soft as silk and a pure soul without much resentment. He is a very good person."