Jung Chung-rae, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, said Wednesday, one day after the June 3 local elections and National Assembly by-elections, "I am grateful to the people who gave the Democratic Party a major victory nationwide," adding, "However, it pains me that we failed to reclaim Seoul."
Jung made the remarks at a press conference held at the National Assembly that day, saying, "The sovereignty of the Republic of Korea rests with the people, and all power comes from the people."
"The people stopped the illegal Dec. 3 martial law and protected the Constitution and democracy," he said. "In the June 3 local elections, they also cheered for the hard-working Lee Jae-myung government and raised the Democratic Party's hand."
He added, "I will humbly and modestly accept all of the warm encouragement and support, as well as the sharp warnings and reprimands, that the people sent during this election process," and said, "I will use them as precious nourishment to become a better, bigger Democratic Party."
Citing the case of Kim Sang-wook, who won election after a candidate unification with the Progressive Party for the Ulsan mayoral race, Jung said, "When we form alliances, we grow. I will deeply consider methods of forming alliances with other parties through a process of public discussion."
He explained, "Many people have proposed introducing a runoff voting system, and I will reach a good conclusion on that matter through a process of public discussion."
