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Lee Jae-myung, presidential candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea, raises his hand to greet supporters during his first official campaign rally at Cheonggye Plaza in Seoul on May 12. / Photo by Song Ui-joo

Lee Jae-myung, presidential candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea, expressed gratitude for the strong public turnout on his first day of official campaigning, saying the crowd reflected the “will of the people.”

In a social media post on May 13, Lee wrote, “I took the first step of this great journey with the people. I was surprised by the large crowd that gathered in Gwanghwamun Square on a Monday morning. The passion of the people came through loud and clear.”

He continued, “With a transcript of 'Everyone’s Questions Q' in hand and my red-and-blue-laced sneakers tightly tied, I took the first step in what I call the 'K-Initiative'—a vision shaped by your hopes. I visited young developers, office workers, and scientists in Pangyo, Dongtan, and Daejeon.”

Lee said conversations centered on the imbalance between technological progress and fair labor conditions. “While productivity has surged due to advancements in high-tech industries, are we really sharing those gains equally? How can we improve working conditions and reduce excessive labor intensity?” he asked.

He criticized the previous administration’s decision to slash research and development funding, noting, “We’ve lost about 30,000 Ph.D.-level talents every year as they leave Korea. Meanwhile, China is overtaking us. This is the sobering reality we must confront.”

Despite these challenges, Lee expressed confidence in the people’s resilience. “Though the waves of crisis seem ready to crash down on us, the true source of Korea’s hope remains its great citizens,” he said. “As I reflect on the words I heard yesterday that filled my eyes, ears, and heart, I tighten my shoelaces once more and review today’s schedule.”

He concluded with a message of determination and unity: “We will share hope, belief in the people’s power, and pride in Korea’s global leadership. Together, we will shout the roar of victory. This is the true Korea. Now is the time for Lee Jae-myung.”