Cho Kuk, the leader of the Justice Party, highlighted on June 20 that there has been no clear communication from the Democratic Party regarding a potential election alliance for the upcoming local elections scheduled on June 3. He emphasized that while his party has been discussing a strategy where they would advocate for a ‘zero influence from the ruling party’ approach in the elections, there hasn't been any affirmative action from the Democratic Party, which complicates the prospects for collaboration. He mentioned that dialogues regarding alliances would not even commence until May, indicating a lack of urgency from both parties' sides.

Furthermore, Cho Kuk declared his commitment to running in the National Assembly by-elections alongside the local elections, expressing a willingness to compete vigorously against any Democratic Party candidates who might emerge in his district. This proclamation denotes his confidence and readiness to engage in the electoral process, regardless of possible rivalries. He noted that certain local party organizations have shown interest in having him contest, solidifying his position within local party dynamics, but he refrained from asking for preferential treatment from the Democratic Party.

In reflection upon his recent popularity in a Gallup poll naming him as a leading candidate for the next leadership role, Cho Kuk demurred, suggesting that the significant non-response rate in the poll questions its validity. Nevertheless, he recognized that his party, although considerably smaller than the Democratic Party, achieving consistent top ratings in polls could imply meaningful public support. This situation portrays the intricate, often unpredictable nature of Korean politics as alliances and public opinion continue to shift in the lead-up to the elections.