Democratic Party of Korea faces internal rift over leadership and presidential style

Tensions are rising within South Korea’s Democratic Party following the August 17 convention. Professor Baek Nak-chung characterized the convention as a gathering of forces opposing the ‘second Candlelight Government,’ suggesting the election of new leadership was an attempt to neutralize the President’s power. Baek criticized commentators Kim Eo-jun and Rhyu Si-min, claiming they were not truly supportive of the administration despite their public personas.

Simultaneously, critic Rhyu Si-min sparked intense backlash within the party after accusing President Lee Jae-myung of moving toward a ‘monarchy or aristocracy’ by attempting to control party leadership through proxies. Rhyu argued that the current administration lacks communication and empathy, comparing its internal dynamics to previous government conflicts.

Democratic Party officials have responded sharply to Rhyu’s remarks. Minister Park Hong-geun dismissed the criticisms as ‘insulting accusations’ and ‘curses,’ while other party members distanced themselves from Rhyu’s specific conclusions, though acknowledging his right to offer critiques as a commentator.