Cho Seung-rae, the Democratic Party of Korea's secretary-general, stated the party's position on issues including unification in Pyeongtaek-eul, controversy over former senior presidential secretary for civil affairs Lee Ho-cheol's "party-disloyal" act, and the matter of North Jeolla Gov. Kim Kwan-young declaring an independent run.
On the afternoon of the 15th, Secretary-General Cho held a press briefing at the National Assembly and explained the party's stance on key issues in the local elections. Regarding the possibility of an alliance with the Rebuilding Korea Party in Pyeongtaek-eul, he said, "There is nothing underway regarding Pyeongtaek unification, and nothing planned."
Cho went on to say, "At candidate Kim Yong-nam's campaign office opening, many people, including Leader Jeong, will attend to show the party's determination to secure victory."
He also took a hard line on former senior presidential secretary for civil affairs Lee Ho-cheol—known as part of the "pro-Roh, pro-Moon" faction—issuing a message supporting candidate Cho Kuk. Secretary-General Cho said, "Supporting or campaigning for another party's candidate or an independent candidate will be regarded as a party-disloyal act; that is an existing stance and principle," and added, "We are receiving reports that various people are engaging in such acts."
He continued, "Rather than responding to each and every case, we are collecting them one by one and will make a comprehensive judgment, including what position the person holds and what remarks were made."
Secretary-General Cho was also asked about Gov. Kim, who was expelled from the party over allegations of "cash handouts for substitute driving fees" and is now running as an independent. After Kim raised more than 300 million won in donations just one day after opening a campaign finance account, some suggested this reflects backlash against the Democratic Party's nominations.
Secretary-General Cho said, "Since he filled the donations, I think he did well," adding, "I have no intention of belittling that. I think he did a good job." He added, "It is hard to see that as due to veto sentiment against our party."
At the same time, he said, "Our party conducted a primary according to the party constitution and rules, and a candidate was decided," adding, "To properly craft a vision that reflects North Jeolla's particular circumstances, such as the Saemangeum development, we are explaining to residents that working together with the Democratic Party will be more effective and powerful, and we are appealing for their support."