The non-mainstream faction leading the "Hope and Alternatives" forum has launched. Members of the non-mainstream faction argued that diversity should be recognized within the Democratic Party of Korea. In particular, former Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum, who attended the founding ceremony, used the terms "daughter of reform" and "watermelon," calling for the party to advance to a larger coalition.
The political platform of the non-mainstream faction, "Hope and Alternatives," held its founding ceremony at Gwangmyeong Station in Gyeonggi Province on the afternoon of the 18th. Attendees included former Prime Minister Kim and former lawmakers Kim Du-kwan and Park Yong-jin, as well as various members such as Kim Dong-min, Yoon Young-chan, Park Kwang-on, Jeon Hye-sook, Kim Cheol-min, Song Gap-seok, and Ko Yong-jin. Kim Dong-yeon, the governor of Gyeonggi Province, who could not attend the official schedule, sent a video message.
In his message, Kim said, “Thank you to the fervent supporters of the Democratic Party of Korea known as the ‘daughters of reform,’” adding, “The language of division and hatred you use, such as watermelon, brings about division and pain.” He continued, “The term ‘watermelon’ symbolizes national historical tragedies, wounds, sacrifices, and blood,” and he urged, “If you understand that history, and think of the citizens who were sacrificed, please refrain from using such terms.”
The term ‘watermelon,’ as used by Kim, means that the outside and inside colors are different, which was used by supporters of Leader Lee Jae-myung to root out lawmakers opposing him. However, it appears he requested to refrain from using ‘watermelon,’ as it is a term associated with ideological conflicts during and after the Korean War.
After the ceremony, Kim met with reporters and explained the reason for his direct mention of ‘daughter of reform’ and ‘watermelon,’ saying, “In the past, if someone was immediately labeled as watermelon, that person was directly linked to sacrifice,” and added, “I felt it was necessary to correct this because it seems these individuals (daughters of reform) do not understand the historical significance of the term.”
He stated, “I do not believe that the current Democratic Party alone can launch a desirable community for the next generations, for our children,” and emphasized, “It will only be possible through a broader coalition that brings together various forces that have upheld the constitutional order.”
Yang Ki-dae, former Democratic Party lawmaker and chairman of Hope and Alternatives, said, “I believe the Democratic Party must return to its core values to regain national trust,” and noted, “The strength of the Democratic Party lies in diversity, and it must be created in collaboration with the people and party members, not by a single leader.” He further remarked, “I hope for great applause for leaders such as Kim Boo-kyum, Kim Du-kwan, Park Yong-jin, Kim Dong-yeon, and Kim Kyung-soo, who wish to lead the way.”
Former lawmaker Kim Du-kwan said, “While Leader Lee Jae-myung and the Democratic Party leadership argue that suppressing internal conflict is the priority because there are insurgent forces at play, we cannot neglect the task of establishing a democratic government (constitutional amendment) if we want to win the upcoming presidential election.” Former lawmaker Park Yong-jin stated, “I completely agree with forming a coalition for a greater victory through impeachment.”
Hope and Alternatives plans to expand its organization nationwide, starting with the founding of the Gwangju and South Jeolla branch on the 6th of next month.