Jeong Cheong-rae on Pyeongtaek-eul Unification Talks: "Will Follow Public Sentiment"

Jeong Cheong-rae, leader of the Democratic Party, stated on May 19 regarding the unification of candidates for the Pyeongtaek-eul parliamentary by-election that "Ultimately, there is no choice but to proceed as the public sentiment wishes." This is interpreted as the Democratic Party showing its resolve not to easily concede the district, currently held by the party, to the People Power Party.

Currently, candidates in the Pyeongtaek-eul by-election include Kim Yong-nam (Democratic Party), Yoo Eui-dong (People Power Party), Cho Kuk (Cho Kuk Innovation Party), Kim Jae-yeon (Progressive Party), and Hwang Kyo-ahn (Liberty and Innovation Party). Poll results indicate that Kim Yong-nam, Yoo Eui-dong, and Cho Kuk are in a close race within the margin of error, making candidate unification a significant variable in the election outcome.

Following allegations of past assault and verbal abuse against Kim Yong-nam, a candidate from the Democratic Party, he apologized, reflecting on his immaturity and oversight. Party leader Jeong Cheong-rae stated that he, as party leader, apologizes for these issues. The Cho Kuk Innovation Party criticized Kim, and Yoo Eui-dong of the People Power Party demanded his resignation.