Pine Tree Party leader Song Young-gil said on the 20th that President Lee Jae-myung sent a congratulatory message to encourage the book concert for "Leaving the Democratic Party." "Leaving the Democratic Party" is a book that Song translated and published while in prison.
While serving as a lawmaker with the Democratic Party of Korea, Song was indicted on charges of receiving illegal political funds worth around 800 million won and was sentenced to two years in prison at the first trial, being taken into custody in court. He was then released on bail in June and is standing trial without detention.
Through a congratulatory message that began with the words, "I sincerely congratulate you on the 'Leaving the Democratic Party' book concert," President Lee conveyed his appreciation for Song's efforts and emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives and voices in society.
President Lee said, "Former Democratic Party leader Song Young-gil devoted great effort to rendering into Korean former U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard's For Love of Country (the original title of 'Leaving the Democratic Party') despite difficult circumstances."
He added, "I hope many readers will, through this book, take time to contemplate from multiple angles the challenges of modern democratic society so that that passion and hard work shine even more."
President Lee said, "To deeply understand a nation's politics and society, it is important to encounter diverse perspectives and voices."
He continued, "I hope today's book concert will enhance understanding of various fields, including U.S. society, politics, diplomacy, and security, and serve as a meaningful opportunity to reflect on our politics."
President Lee concluded, "Once again, congratulations on hosting the 'Leaving the Democratic Party' book concert, and I extend words of encouragement to former leader Song and the people involved who worked hard to bring this book to publication."
Song said, "I express my gratitude to President Lee," adding, "Beyond individual toil, I hope this book will serve as an opportunity to reflectively contemplate democracy and to find meaning and common ground for building a peace regime on the Korean Peninsula."