With the Democratic Party of Korea party leader election on Aug. 17 ahead, Jung Chung-rae, a former leader who is widely expected to run, and Prime Minister Kim Min-seok both visited North Jeolla, launching bids to win over voters in Honam. As the two leading contenders for party leadership visited the same event, sharpening the competitive frame, they also revealed subtle differences in their views of the local election results.
On the 25th, the former leader offered congratulations to the winners in North Jeolla, saying they achieved results despite difficult circumstances. He said, "Just as a cuckoo cries from spring to make a single chrysanthemum bloom, there were many steps for your victories," and added, "Seeing your faces in full bloom after going through all those steps makes me feel good." He then said, "Let's give ourselves a round of applause."
Jung also underscored the election results in North Jeolla by sharing an anecdote about visiting the Wanju five-day market and greeting residents. He went on to stress continued communication with local sentiment, saying, "It's important to come by not only during campaigns but also after elections to express thanks."
He continued, "The key to winning is ultimately reputation and favorability," advising, "You should always check what image comes to mind when your name is called." He added, "Politicians are like fish in a fishbowl; intentions eventually show," and said, "Always act with public values with a focus on at the center."
That day, after returning from a visit to China and immediately giving a briefing in Seoul on supplemental investigative authority, Prime Minister Kim pushed through a grueling schedule by heading straight to North Jeolla. It showed he is working hard to shore up support in Honam ahead of the party convention.
Kim highlighted special attention to Honam and North Jeolla as he mentioned key projects. He said, "There are a few things the Prime Minister's Office has handled directly," adding, "Saemangeum, a nationwide Hyundai Motor investment, 'creating 10 Seoul National Universities,' and the second public institution transfer to be announced soon are matters we have carefully prepared." He emphasized, "More than any previous administration, we have prepared with affection for the regions, especially Honam and North Jeolla."
He also voiced regret over the local election results. Kim said, "Everyone worked hard to produce valuable election results, but it seems not all the outcomes were fully satisfying," adding, "We now face the task of building a 'winning Democratic Party' again." He also noted, "There are aspects that are somewhat disappointing compared with what we expected," revealing a subtle difference in tone from the former leader.
He added, "Once the confirmation hearings are over, I expect to return to the party by the end of this month, or by early July at the latest, to think, talk, and work together with you."