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Lee Jae-myung, presidential candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea, greets citizens with a thumbs-up during a campaign rally held at Sky Road on Eunhaengjeong Street in Daejeon on May 12. / Source: Yonhap News

Lee Jae-myung, presidential candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea, vowed to turn Daejeon into South Korea’s administrative and science capital during a campaign rally held on May 12 in Daejeon.

“The hometown of my late father-in-law is in Chungcheong Province, which means, in today’s terms, I’m a son-in-law of Chungcheong,” Lee said. “While others are building expressways for their in-laws, I will present you with the capital of administration and science and technology.” The remark was widely interpreted as a veiled criticism of allegations surrounding first lady Kim Keon-hee and the controversial Seoul–Yangpyeong Expressway project.

Lee emphasized that political power ultimately lies with the people. “Although it may seem like politicians run the country, it is the sovereign people who truly decide its fate,” he said.

Calling Daejeon and the Chungcheong region not only the geographic but also the political heart of the nation, Lee added, “Whoever Daejeon and Chungcheong choose becomes the next president. The party they support becomes the ruling power. Choose Lee Jae-myung for the future of your children and for a better life.”

Lee cast the election as a decisive crossroads. “This is the moment to choose between saving Korea’s economy or continuing down the path of economic ruin,” he declared. “Your choice will define this critical juncture in our history.”

He went on to praise South Korea’s accomplishments: “We are the only formerly colonized country to achieve both industrialization and democratization. We created the Miracle on the Han River, and we are a globally admired democratic nation—where people even dream of visiting Sky Road in Daejeon after watching Korean dramas.”

Lee argued that the root of Korea’s problems lies in politics. “If politics functioned properly—if opportunities were fair and rewards matched contributions—then Korea could become a much better society,” he said. “With competent governance, a far more hopeful and prosperous future is possible.”

He also called for unity beyond political divisions. “What does it matter if you're red or yellow?” he said. “It’s time to stop this childish struggle for power and build a society where everyone can thrive. We are not people who hire the incompetent just because they’re acquaintances.”

Concluding his speech, Lee said, “It’s not Lee Jae-myung who will shape the future, but you, by choosing a capable and loyal representative. Convince just one more person—let’s not repeat the anger, regret, and frustration after the election.”