Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party of Korea presidential candidate, said on the 11th, "The first thing that the People Power Party and candidate Kim Moon-soo must do is to sincerely apologize for the insurrection act aimed at the people by former President Yoon Suk-yeol, who is the first party member." This was in response to a message of support from former President Yoon after Kim was confirmed as the presidential candidate of the People Power Party, demanding an apology for the martial law situation on Dec. 3.
On this day, the candidate met with reporters during the 'listening tour' schedule in Yeongam, Jeolla Province, stating, "Can a candidate who protects those who sympathize with the insurrection receive the public's choice?"
Previously, candidate Kim had a severe conflict with the party leadership over the candidate replacement issue, but the day before, the People Power Party's vote result among former party members on the motion to replace the presidential candidate with former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo was rejected, allowing him to regain the status of party presidential candidate. After that, candidate Kim completed the presidential candidate registration process at the National Election Commission on the morning of that day.
Then, former President Yoon stated through social media, "There were intense debates and difficulties in the process of deciding the People Power Party’s presidential candidate, but it still showed health," and added, "Now, please gather your hearts for (candidate) Kim."
Candidate Lee said regarding the aborted attempt to replace the People Power Party’s candidate, "It was absurd to switch candidates arbitrarily," and added, "I am relieved to be the candidate elected by the party members."
He then congratulated candidate Kim, saying, "Congratulations on being confirmed as the candidate. I hope there will be a constructive policy competition on how to improve (the people's) lives and how to lead our country in the future."