Kim Du-kwan, a former member of the Democratic Party of Korea who declared his candidacy for the 21st presidential election, said on the 14th, "I reject the Democratic Party's primary that has abandoned the spirits of Kim Dae-jung and Roh Moo-hyun."

Former Democratic Party member Kim Du-kwan, who declares his candidacy for the Rose Election, holds a press conference in the Gwangju City Council briefing room on Aug. 8, stating, “I will start a political revolution with the spirit of Gwangju.” /Courtesy of News1

The former lawmaker noted on Facebook that, "I am trying to contemplate what the true future of the Democratic Party looks like, what political development in Korea means, and how to inherit the spirits of Kim Dae-jung and Roh Moo-hyun to create hope for the people."

Although he expressed his intention not to participate in the Democratic Party's primary process, it is interpreted as meaning he will consider his decision on the presidential election further.

The former lawmaker stated, "I was the first to declare my candidacy in the Democratic Party. I thought we needed to hasten the restoration of politics when the chaotic situation of martial law and insurrection is resolved," adding, "But the Democratic Party has regressed since 2002."

He explained that believing in the people without weighing the pros and cons is the spirit of Roh Moo-hyun, and that inclusiveness and integration are the spirit of Kim Dae-jung.

He continued, "The party's election management committee announced 'no open primary' without any explanation or discussion with the candidates," and said, "A primary rule without consultation with candidates is bound to lead to results similar to endorsing a specific candidate."

The former lawmaker said, "If you are scared of Shincheonji and afraid of Jeon Kwang-hoon, what kind of election will you hold?" and added, "Isn't it more honest to say that we will disenfranchise those who are listed in Shincheonji and the Love of Church?" He also questioned when such reverse selection has ever occurred in the Democratic Party's primaries.

He said, "If it had been decided to select candidates at the general assembly, I would have thought that the Democratic Party had become more honest."

He mentioned, "For the time being, I plan to consider what political actions I should take for the people and the country, listening to advice and taking time for deep reflection," adding, "It won't be long."