The article explores the idea of ‘New Lee Jae-myung’ as a spectral presence in South Korean politics, representing a collective sentiment that, while widely discussed, has yet to manifest as a concrete political force. It reflects on how this entity, referred to as a ghost, embodies an absence that nevertheless influences political narratives and opinions, drawing parallels to previous political movements in South Korea.

The piece mentions a recent column by Lee Jae-myung, which was shared by the President on X (formerly Twitter) without comment, leading to diverse reactions across social media. Supporters interpreted this as an endorsement from the President, while critics accused the media of manipulative categorization that simplifies the political landscape. This contention between differing interpretations underscores the complex dynamics within the Democratic Party and among its supporters, particularly regarding how ‘New Lee Jae-myung’ is perceived and utilized in political discourse.

Further, the article examines a recent symposium entitled ‘Discussion on New Lee Jae-myung’ held in the National Assembly, organized by a member of the Democratic Party. The discourse at the event largely framed this new entity as a necessary evolution in South Korean politics, calling for strategic integration of diverse voter groups under the ‘New Lee Jae-myung’ brand. However, the article highlights the dissonance between the optimistic rhetoric of theorizing a new political wave and the actual engagement levels observed during the event, suggesting a gap between expectation and reality in the political engagement of this new identity.