Jung Chung-rae of the Democratic Party of Korea said about President Lee Jae-myung's pick of Lee Hye-hoon as Minister of Planning and Budget that "please trust President Lee and back him." It was the first time he stated a position since the Blue House announced its appointments.
On the 29th, appearing on the YouTube channel "Saenal," Jung said, "The better a decision is, the more we should help it become a successful decision."
He urged, "If the nominee has past faults, apply the whip so there is reflection and a fresh resolve, but please do not go so far as to (criticize) President Lee's decision and instead help."
It is seen as a remark conscious of concerns within the ruling camp over the nominee's past record, including attendance at a rally opposing the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol.
Regarding the future of floor leader Kim Byung-kee, who is engulfed in various allegations, Jung said, "If I replay what I said at the press conference, I am taking this very seriously, and as party leader I am sorry, I said I apologize."
He added, "The floor leader is an elected position chosen by lawmakers and party members, with a guaranteed term," and said, "It is difficult for anyone to tell someone with a guaranteed term to do this or that."
To the question, "There is a view that Floor Leader Kim will not resign," he answered, "I think this too will pass well."