Lee Jae-myung, the presidential candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea, visited Iksan, North Jeolla Province, and joined hands with Kim Sang-wook, an independent lawmaker who left the People Power Party. Lee evaluated Kim as a person who will realize "the true values of conservatism" and suggested that he join the Democratic Party.
During a campaign event at the eastern square of Iksan Station on the morning of the 16th, Lee said, "I will introduce Kim Sang-wook, who was expelled from the fake conservative party (People Power Party) while trying to be a true conservative. It would be great if this person could work hard to realize true conservative values and rational politics within the Democratic Party."
On that day, at 10 a.m., Kim arrived at Iksan Station by train and joined the campaign site for Lee. He greeted supporters of the Democratic Party and citizens of North Jeolla Province, and supporters welcomed him, shouting, "Kim Sang-wook, fighting!" and "I never dreamed that Kim Sang-wook would come!" One citizen praised Kim's departure from the People Power Party by saying, "Now that you've come to the Democratic Party, look how warmly you're welcomed."
Lee said, "Former President Kim Dae-jung once said, 'Maintain the merchant's sense of reality, but do not lose the scholar's sense of issue.' I know the sermon was long, but I want to introduce one person," and added, "the People Power Party was nothing more than a group chasing vested interests."
Kim, introduced by Lee, stepped onto the podium to express his position regarding his departure from the People Power Party and his support for Lee. In particular, he emphasized that in the 21st presidential election, the candidate who embodies the citizen as the owner of the state must become the president instead of politicizing within factions.
Kim pointed out, "While many talk about progressive and conservative factions, the characteristic of those who talk about factions is that they do not work. It is bothersome and undesirable for them to help the citizens and earn trust and support, so they want to divide into factions to seek protection."
He further stated, "Who do you think will be the president who creates a nation where the people are the owners, rather than the conflict between the conservative and progressive factions in South Korea? I too will do my best for Lee Jae-myung to become president."
On that day, Lee will visit Iksan, Gunsan, Jeonju, and Jeongeup cities in North Jeolla Province in succession to campaign. He has been continuing his campaign in the Honam region for two days since the previous day in South Jeolla Province. In Jeonju, he will hold a meeting related to K-culture with young traditional music artists.
Lee emphasized, "When support is given to the Honam region, it seems to be only for Gwangju and South Jeolla Province, while North Jeolla Province feels a 'triple marginalization.' We are all the same citizens, yet the mere feeling that a specific region is being neglected indicates a serious problem with national policy. I will promote balanced national development."