Kim Moon-soo, former presidential candidate of the People Power Party, said on the 4th regarding the presidential election defeat, there needs to be deep self-reflection on the fact that the will of a president who implemented martial law was unilaterally imposed on the party. He emphasized the need for restoring democracy within the party, establishing a superior economic vision, and more.
Kim appeared at 4 p.m. in the basement auditorium of the People Power Party's central office in Yeouido, Seoul. This was 14 hours after he announced his concession statement at around 2:10 a.m. earlier that day.
He began by saying, watching Lee Jae-myung's presidential inauguration today, I realized I have committed a significant historical sin, and prostrated himself on the floor, stating, with this in mind, I offer a deep bow in apology to the people and party comrades.
He cited one of the reasons for the recent presidential election defeat as the martial law situation under former President Yoon Seok-youl. Kim noted, our party lacks basic understanding and conviction about democracy and a firm mission to uphold it, which resulted in the unimaginable situation of martial law.
He stressed the need for deep introspection regarding the president's unilateral imposition of martial law, asserting that such martial law should never occur again.
Kim especially pointed out, in politics, while goals are important, the means are extremely significant, stating that it was a major problem that there was no internal force to prevent the use of inappropriate means. He added, there must be unwavering rejection regarding the basic fundamentals of democracy, with no concessions or compromises.
He also questioned, whom should we choose as the party leader, whom should we select as public office candidates? And noted, internal democracy has completely disappeared within the party. He reflected, haven't we chosen public office candidates in an incomprehensible manner even a child could see? And believed that there is a need for deep reflection and reform to ensure whether the party is truly democratic.
He further emphasized the need to restore public trust that the party's vision for livelihoods and the economy is superior. Kim noted the party's keen and firm role regarding the economy and livelihoods, expressing surprise at seeing a 'Democratic Party for the Economy' poster in the member's office building. Previously, 'People Power Party for the Economy' was a clear slogan, but now, is the People Power Party truly handling the economy properly?
He also stated, we need to deeply consider whether our party has a system in place to reflect public opinion. It was pointed out that the disconnection from the field was reflected in the election results.
Along with this, he emphasized party unity. Kim noted, there are times when we must argue and times when we should not, stating that there should be a more democratic and open-minded set of internal party rules regarding how to handle differences in opinion.
Finally, Kim expressed his repeated apology, stating, as the defeated, I am sorry.