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

According to Yonhap News Agency, the election results saw Rep. Park Chan-dae finishing second with 38.26 percent of the votes. Votes from DP delegates, dues-paying members, and a public poll were instrumental in determining the new leader, with Jung receiving significant support from dues-paying members (66.48 percent), delegates (46.91 percent), and the public poll (60.46 percent).

In his victory speech, Jung emphasized the empowerment of dues-paying members, marking a shift from a focus on lawmakers and delegates. He stated his election represents a desire for party member sovereignty and the success of the Lee Jae Myung government. Jung pledged to reform the prosecution, media, and judiciary before the Chuseok holiday in early October.

Jung also highlighted the importance of unity between the party and the government, pledging his support for President Lee Jae Myung. He expressed his willingness to undertake challenging tasks to ensure the alignment of the party, government, and presidency.

The opposition People Power Party (PPP) congratulated Jung but expressed concerns over his hard-line stance. PPP spokesperson Kwak Kyu-taek urged Jung to focus on policies that unite the people and improve livelihoods, offering cooperation if the DP prioritizes these goals.

Jung, however, criticized the PPP for its ties to former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was impeached and removed from office. He called for severe punishment for Yoon and his supporters for their alleged involvement in an insurrection, asserting that the investigations could expose PPP members' complicity.

In a candid post-election statement, Jung expressed reluctance to collaborate with the PPP, citing an ongoing "war with the insurrection." He demanded apologies and remorse from those he accused of constitutional violations before considering any reconciliation.