Kang Deuk-gu Enters Leadership Race; Chung Cheong-rae Downplays 'Rivalry with Lee Jae-myung'

As Democratic Party lawmaker Kang Deuk-gu throws his hat into the ring for the upcoming Supreme Council by-election, the party is abuzz with varying interpretations of the emerging landscape. In response, Representative Chung Cheong-rae is stepping in to defuse any notion of a factional showdown.

So far, Yoo Dong-cheol, head of the Busan Suyeong district committee, and Representative Lee Geon-tae have officially announced their candidacies. Representatives Moon Jeong-bok and Lee Sung-yoon are also reportedly preparing to enter the race.

The Democratic Party aims to form a new leadership through this by-election, fostering both innovation and unity within the party. Candidate registration is scheduled for December 15-17, with the main election taking place on January 11, 2026, alongside the main vote. The Democratic Party plans to select the most suitable individuals to lead the party's future through fair competition.

The main election process will include joint speeches where candidates can share their policies and visions. Voting will be conducted using a two-vote-per-person system, providing a crucial opportunity to compare and evaluate the candidates' platforms.

The final winners will be determined by combining the votes of the central committee (50%) and party members (50%). This voting ratio is designed to ensure that the voices of party members are reflected in the selection of the leadership, fostering a democratic process.

Expressing concern that Kang Deuk-gu's candidacy might be perceived as a factional clash, Representative Chung Cheong-rae emphasized, "This election is not a showdown with party leader Lee Jae-myung." He stated his belief that healthy competition within the party can lead to better outcomes.

In his candidacy announcement, Kang Deuk-gu pledged to "dedicate himself to the party's innovation and unity" and expressed his ambition to "create a trustworthy party by listening to the voices of the people and reflecting them in policy." He emphasized a leadership style that embraces diverse opinions and fosters communication within the party.

Lee Geon-tae stated that he would "do his best to revive the people's livelihoods and protect the socially vulnerable." He promised to focus on developing policies for economic revitalization and social integration.

Yoo Dong-cheol said he would "contribute to resolving local issues and developing grassroots democracy." He emphasized his commitment to creating policies that improve the quality of life for local residents.

Moon Jeong-bok has yet to make an official statement, but is reportedly preparing to run. She is expected to highlight her expertise as a policy specialist to garner support.

Lee Sung-yoon is also considering running and is expected to voice his support for prosecutorial reform and the realization of judicial justice. He is expected to work to gain the support of hard-line factions within the party.

As this Democratic Party Supreme Council by-election is a critical one that will determine the party's future, each candidate is expected to highlight their strengths and engage in fierce competition. In particular, following Representative Chung Cheong-rae's remarks, efforts to guard against factional strife and encourage policy competition are expected to become even more important. Through this election, the Democratic Party must form a new leadership, present policies that meet the expectations of the people, and restore trust. It is also important to strengthen communication and cooperation within the party to present a united front.

The final election results will be confirmed on January 11, 2026, with the announcement of the main vote results. The Democratic Party plans to select its leadership through a transparent and fair election management process, in accordance with democratic procedures.