Candidates Kim Kyeong-soo and Kim Dong-yeon, who participated in the Democratic Party of Korea presidential primary, expressed their dissatisfaction with the current trend of 'Eo Daemyeong' (the president will definitely be Lee Jae-myung). This is interpreted as suggesting that the competition is unfavorable, as Democratic Party of Korea lawmakers and party members are centered around candidate Lee Jae-myung.
Candidate Kim Dong-yeon said during the 'Democratic Party of Korea's 21st presidential primary candidates debate' held on OhmyTV on the afternoon of the 23rd, "The Democratic Party of Korea primary cannot continue this way," adding, "For the bigger Democratic Party of Korea and to achieve more than just a change of government, the diversity and dynamism of the Democratic Party of Korea must be revived."
He continued, "Right now, there is not a single incumbent member standing next to me. I understand the difficulties they are in, but at times it is lonely and hard," and stated, "I will face the people proudly and boldly. Please hold Kim Dong-yeon's hand."
Candidate Kim Kyeong-soo also appealed for support in his concluding remarks during the primary. He said, "Candidate Lee Jae-myung received overwhelming support from party members. I would like to congratulate him once again," but added, "However, I would like to make one request to the citizens and fellow party members: Please vote together for the future of the Democratic Party of Korea."
He emphasized, "If we eat all the seeds this time, how will we farm next time? With the mindset of a wise farmer who leaves behind some seeds for the next harvest, I earnestly ask you to vote for Kim Kyeong-soo for the future of the Democratic Party of Korea."
Previously, the Democratic Party of Korea decided on the primary rules as a national participation primary with '50% party members and 50% public opinion polls.' This differs from the previous national primary system, where general citizens participated in the electorate and cast the same vote as party members and delegates. There were also concerns that this would lead to a 'Eo Daemyeong primary' as the influence of party members and delegates grew.
Candidate Kim Dong-yeon criticized the primary rules set by the Democratic Party of Korea leadership on the 13th, stating, "The national primary is a beautiful tradition and pride that the Democratic Party of Korea has maintained for a long time. It is very regrettable that the Democratic Party of Korea seems to be heading toward a 'sidekick primary.'" He also argued, "Concerns about reverse selection are not appropriate considering the capabilities of the people who brought about the end of illegal martial law and insurrection by blocking tanks and the military."