Seoul: Four-term lawmaker Jung Chung-rae has been elected as the new head of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) in a national party convention held at KINTEX in Goyang. Jung, 60, secured 61.74 percent of the votes, succeeding Lee Jae Myung, who was elected president in June.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the election results were determined by a combination of votes cast by DP delegates, dues-paying members, and a public poll. Jung garnered 66.48 percent support from dues-paying members, 46.91 percent from delegates, and 60.46 percent in the public poll. His victory speech emphasized empowering dues-paying members and aligning the party’s success with the Lee Jae Myung government.

Jung has pledged to initiate reforms in the prosecution, media, and judiciary systems before the Chuseok holiday in early October. He announced the formation of task forces dedicated to these reforms and highlighted his commitment to working in unison with President Lee.

The opposition People Power Party (PPP) offered congratulations but expressed concerns about Jung’s reputation as a hard-liner. PPP spokesperson Kwak Kyu-taek urged Jung to prioritize policies that unite the people and improve livelihoods, promising cooperation if such an approach is taken.

Jung’s leadership marks a pivotal moment for the Democratic Party, as he aims to reinforce party member sovereignty and support President Lee’s administration in achieving their shared goals.