Kang Deuk-gu, a supreme council member of the Democratic Party of Korea and a member of the faction loyal to President Lee Jae-myung, said Tuesday that the party had "allowed the People Power Party to overtake us beyond the margin of error in a Realmeter survey," emphasizing the need for a party-government-presidential office "one team." The remarks were interpreted as indirectly expressing opposition to a second term for party leader Jung Chung-rae, effectively conveying a sense of no confidence.
Kang made the comments at a supreme council meeting held at the National Assembly that day, adding, "The president's approval rating has also declined. We must be on alert about facing such a result in the second year of the administration."
Kang then referenced President Lee's post on X to explain the ruling party's role.
"Even while on an overseas tour, the president's anguish in worrying about the party and the Republic of Korea without rest is felt directly," he said. "As the president said that the ruling party must serve all citizens, the ruling party's duty is clear." He continued, "The ruling party shares a common destiny with the government," stressing, "The party, government and presidential office must become one so that the Democratic Party can earn the people's trust."
