Woo Won-shik Bows Out of Democratic Party Leadership Race

Ahead of its August convention, Woo Won-shik, former Speaker of the National Assembly, has officially announced his withdrawal from the race for leadership of the Democratic Party. In a statement, the former Speaker said, "Names that are difficult to utter are being mobilized to attack opponents within the party. If we hold the convention while hurting each other, mocking opponents, finding fault, and fanning division, what will be left of our party afterward?" he questioned.

He added, "If we do not properly heed the warning we received from the public in the last local elections, there is no future for (the Democratic Party). I particularly urge those who intend to run in the convention to look at the reality facing our Democratic Party as it is, with courage and honesty." Woo stated, "The Democratic Party has invariably shrunk and been defeated when it fractured internally and turned its weapons against each other. It has only been a year since the previous administration's term, and instead of a year that should be used to further expand the path of a democratic government, we are divided in the local elections, and internal conflict is so severe that it's difficult to look ahead." he diagnosed the current party situation.

Meanwhile, President Lee Jae-myung pointed out regarding the internal conflict, "Do not fight as if you are enemies. Is it right to wage war when you are competing within the same camp?" The Democratic Party plans to form a convention preparation committee on June 26.