Park Chandae Says Kang Sunwoo Resigned for the Success of the Lee Jaemyung Administration

"The People Power Party Has Not Moved Beyond Being a Rebellion-Condoning Party"
"A Competent Economic Expert Is Needed as Party Leader"

Park Chandae, a candidate for the Democratic Party leadership, commented on Kang Sunwoo, the former Minister of Gender Equality and Family nominee who voluntarily withdrew following allegations of mistreatment of aides, saying, "She made a decision on her own for the success of the Lee Jaemyung administration."

On July 25, during an appearance on CBS Radio's 'Kim Hyunjung's News Show,' Park stated, "It is true that I feel quite heavy-hearted regarding former nominee Kang." He continued, "Even discussing this issue itself is a considerable burden for the party, and party members are also struggling with it. Opinions within our side regarding former nominee Kang were divided, so it must have been a significant burden for the appointing authority as well." He added, "Both I and the other candidates respect Kang's decision. Although there was pain, I believe it was ultimately about everyone coming together for the success of the Lee Jaemyung administration."

Park Chandae, Democratic Party of Korea presidential candidate. Photo by Kim Hyunmin

Park also voiced criticism toward the People Power Party. He said, "Right now, we need to focus on flood recovery, but once this phase passes, we must establish the Lee Jaemyung people's sovereignty government and swiftly bring an end to the rebellion. Looking at the actions of the People Power Party, they have not strayed far from being a party that condones rebellion. Their Innovation Committee has also faded away without results."

He continued, "We must bring an end to the rebellion as soon as possible, and we also need to complete the reform bills that are nearing fruition. Prosecutorial, media, and judicial reforms must be concluded quickly, and livelihoods must be restored." He emphasized, "With the Lee Jaemyung administration facing multiple complex challenges, I believe the party, government, and presidential office are calling for a ruling party leader who can work as one team to resolve these issues. While being a strong fighter is important, it is not enough. We need a competent economic expert as party leader who can also solve livelihood and economic problems."

Meanwhile, on July 23 at around 3:30 p.m., Park called for Kang's voluntary resignation via Facebook, stating, "For the success of the Lee Jaemyung administration, the nominee must make a decision herself." Seventeen minutes later, at 3:47 p.m., Kang posted her statement of voluntary resignation on Facebook. Park later expressed his gratitude, saying, "Thank you for making the decision."