Jung Chung-rae Resigns as Party Leader, Paving Way for Re-election Bid

Democratic Party of Korea leader Jung Chung-rae abruptly resigned from his post today (June 24).

His decision appears to be a move to clear the way for a bid to serve consecutive terms as party leader in the upcoming national convention scheduled for August 17, where a new leadership will be elected.

During the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly today, Jung stated, "I have spent several sleepless nights reflecting on myself and my political career," adding, "I am stepping down from the position of party leader today."

Following Jung's resignation, Floor Leader Han Byung-do will serve as acting party leader until the national convention.

Jung was elected in the party leadership by-election held last August following an early presidential election, and he has served in the role for approximately 11 months.

The upcoming national convention is highly likely to be a three-way race between Jung, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, and former party leader Song Young-gil.

Observers suggest that Prime Minister Kim and former leader Song may form a coalition against Jung, setting the stage for a confrontation between the pro-Jung faction and the non-mainstream pro-Lee Jae-myung faction.

The new Democratic Party leader elected at the August convention will serve a two-year term and will hold the authority to nominate candidates for the 2028 general election.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.