Lee Jae-myung: “Minister appointments will be made regardless of conservative or progressive, as long as they do their job well.”

|

Lee Jae-myung Candidate Advocates 'Pragmatism' Without Ideological Divisions in Minister Appointments

Lee Jae-myung, the candidate for the Democratic Party's presidential primary, stated during a meeting with conservative commentators that "when in power, I will look for capable individuals as ministers regardless of whether they are conservative or progressive."

On the 21st, Lee had dinner with Jo Gab-je, the head of Jo Gab-je.com, and Jeong Kyu-jae, the former chief editor of the Korea Economic Daily.

Image 1

According to information released by Jeong on his YouTube channel on the 22nd, Lee expressed his intent to seek a wide range of talent for the new government, stating that he would not be constrained by ideological leanings in ministerial appointments.

He also claimed, "I am confident that there are no far-left figures in the Democratic Party," mentioning that "the majority of the far-left candidates were eliminated during last year's April 10th primary elections, and the seven who did not get eliminated were replaced through the nomination process."

Image 2

Furthermore, it was reported that he stated, "When you’re busy trying to make a living, what’s the point of discussing ideologies? If I become president, I will not address ideological issues at all. I will try to cover up matters related to pro-Japanese collaborators and historical issues."

Lee also addressed the question, "How do you manage the anger within you, is it under control?" by responding, "During the Moon Jae-in administration, I faced prosecution three times, and I am still undergoing trials, but I have managed to overcome much of my anger over the past year or two. Having suffered so much, I now just accept it as part of life, as if it were like a river or the sea."

Image 3

Jo Gab-je mentioned on CBS Radio on the 22nd that, upon meeting him, he found Lee to be a "cheerful person" and remarked that "it seems he has a naturally cheerful disposition, which may have helped him endure the legal risks he has faced."

Lee Jae-myung's actions have stirred various reactions even within the progressive camp.

While some voices welcome this pragmatic approach, others express concerns about a weakening of identity. However, Lee's camp maintains that focusing on the practical improvement of citizens' lives is the most pressing task at hand, rather than ideological debates.

Image source: Lee Jae-myung, the candidate participating in the 21st presidential election primary of the Democratic Party, is delivering opening remarks at a debate hosted by OhMyTV in the studio located in Yeouido, Seoul, on April 23rd, 2025. / News1, Jeong Kyu-jae, former chief editor of the Korea Economic Daily / YouTube 'Jeong Kyu-jae TV Season 3', Jo Gab-je, head of Jo Gab-je.com / YouTube 'Jo Gab-je TV'.

recent NEWS