Democratic Party lawmaker Park Jiwon downplayed the impact of ongoing attacks against party leader Lee Jae Myung, arguing that even if he’s found guilty in his upcoming appeals court ruling, it will not significantly impact the presidential race.
Park asserted that the election will inevitably become a battle between progressives and conservatives, citing Donald Trump’s victory as an example. Donald Trump won the U.S. presidency despite various legal challenges.
On Thursday, Park appeared on CBS Radio’s Kim Hyun Jung’s News Show and commented on Lee’s appeals court ruling on alleged election law violations. He stated, “I believe he will be acquitted, and even if found guilty, I expect a fine of around 800,000 KRW (approximately $552), which won’t hinder his candidacy.”
“Even if he’s found guilty, the presumption of innocence applies until the Supreme Court’s final ruling. Look at President Trump; he faced legal issues but cleared them in the Supreme Court,” Park added.
He also mentioned, “Some scholars argue that all prosecutions would be halted if elected president. The president-elect should assume office immediately without a transition committee.” Considering this, Park emphasized that while the appeals court decision may influence public opinion, it won’t impede Lee’s candidacy. Park explained that Lee’s opponents and supporters would unite, framing the election along party lines. He predicted the presidential race will be a close battle, estimating a narrow 50-to-49 margin.
Regarding former People Power Party leader Han Dong Hoon’s recent attacks on Lee through his writings as he shows signs of returning to politics, Park remarked, “Han’s challenges to Lee show he’s warming up for his political comeback.” He criticized Han for focusing on attacking Lee rather than offering a constructive vision. “Thinking these attacks will elevate him to Lee’s level is misguided. The conservative base won’t support Han, who’s trapped in the traitor narrative,” he said.
Park concluded by advising Han to distance himself from President Yoon Suk Yeol and build a foundation of healthy conservatism over the next few years before aspiring to a higher office.