Feb 13 • 07:42 UTC 🇰🇷 Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

Jung Cheong-rae and Jo Kuk compete for ‘Honam sentiment’ at Yongsan Station…Jang Dong-hyuk volunteers in a goshiwon

Political leaders from the Democratic Party and the Jo Kuk Innovation Party gathered at Yongsan Station to connect with voters ahead of the Lunar New Year, while the main opposition party focused on community service for the underprivileged.

Ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, political leaders from the Democratic Party and the Jo Kuk Innovation Party visited Yongsan Station in Seoul on January 13, 2023, in a bid to garner support from the Honam region. Jung Cheong-rae, the leader of the Democratic Party, expressed optimism about the current political climate in South Korea, contrasting this year’s celebrations with the previous year's somber mood during a period of political turmoil. He highlighted the perceived recovery of the nation and expressed hope for a prosperous and united future under the leadership of Lee Jae-myung’s administration.

Conversely, Jo Kuk Innovation Party's leader also extended New Year greetings to the public at the station, reflecting on the significant change since the political crisis that had marked the previous year. Although acknowledging the positive economic indicators, such as the rising KOSPI index, he emphasized the darker realities faced by many individuals and the importance of his party's commitment to principles and collective action. Both leaders used the opportunity to promote their respective parties’ vision for a unified and progressive South Korea.

In contrast to the campaigning at Yongsan, leaders from the ruling People Power Party, including Jang Dong-hyuk, opted for a day of service in Jungrim-dong, a goshiwon (a small rooming house for underprivileged individuals), where they distributed food and donations to community members. By choosing to volunteer instead of engaging directly with returning holiday travelers, they aimed to showcase their commitment to aiding those in the most vulnerable situations, reinforcing their message of empathy and responsibility in governance during this festive season.

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