Changnyeong emphasizes 'integration and respect'… Indirect criticism of conflicts within the People Power Party's unification

Lee Jae-myung, the presidential candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea, visited Changnyeong, the hometown of former Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo, on the 10th and stated, "In politics, even if we have different positions, we should not hate each other," and "We need to find a way to work together."

During his visit to Changnyeong Market Street as part of the 'Yeongnam Silla Belt Listening Tour,' he commented, "Is this really Mayor Hong's hometown? I spoke with Mayor Hong a few days ago, and we talked about various things."

"He has said unflattering things, but… he is a politician who has maintained his position"

Regarding his relationship with former Mayor Hong, Lee remarked, "He has a different political stance than I do, and he has occasionally said things that I found unflattering, which sometimes made me sulk." He then joked, "However, he is a remarkable politician who has maintained his own position."

Furthermore, he added, "He is not someone who easily tolerates irregularities or violations," and emphasized, "Politics should not be rooted in hatred. We must not genuinely hate each other." He stressed, "The reason we engage in politics is not for personal gain, but for public value. We must not try to harm others out of emotion."

Indirect criticism aimed at the internal strife of the People Power Party… Laughter at "Even if I get my money back" comment

Lee also indirectly criticized the unification conflicts that occurred in the process of selecting the People Power Party's presidential candidate. He stated, "I didn't want to talk about someone else's family affairs, but I can only imagine how that person (former Mayor Hong) feels seeing the current situation in the People Power Party," and added, "He might be thinking, 'Even if I get my money back, even if I get my money back.'"

He expressed, "Coming to his hometown makes me think more about the need for cooperation. We need to work together," reiterating the message of integration.

"Politics ends if you fall… The first virtue of a leader is integration"

Lee also discussed the essence of politics. He said, "'Politics is not about us winning by doing well. If we just stay still, our opponent will fall. Then we win,' and that statement is truly accurate," adding, "If you move with the intention of benefiting yourself, you will eventually end up falling."

He continued, "I felt this when I observed a certain group. We haven't done anything," once again hinting at a political message.

Lee stated, "Before becoming president, we compete fiercely, but once you become the chairperson, you must care for everyone," and emphasized, "The first virtue of the chairperson, or the leader, is integration. Everyone should be treated fairly and equally without discrimination."

He concluded, "Of course, opinions may differ. We can engage in fierce debates and confrontations, but we must not seek to harm or eliminate each other; we must walk together." He added, "Integration is easy to say, but even when starting from the progressive side, we must ultimately move forward to represent all citizens. I believe both former President Kim Young-sam and Mayor Hong Joon-pyo are individuals who are faithful to that political principle."

Image source: News1