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Rep. Park Chan-dae registers as a candidate for the Democratic Party’s August 2 national convention at the party’s headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul, on July 10. / Photo by Lee Byung-hwa

Rep. Park Chan-dae, a contender in the Democratic Party’s (DP) leadership race, said he anticipates a “golden cross” in approval ratings over the weekend as the campaign gains momentum.

Speaking on KBS Radio’s Jeonggyeok Sisa on July 11, Park acknowledged a delayed start compared to other candidates but expressed confidence in his upward trend. “It’s true that I started late, both in decision and campaign launch, which put me behind early on. But over the past three weeks, I’ve gained significant support,” he said.

Park cited strong backing from politically engaged party members and fellow lawmakers, attributing it to the “servant leadership” he demonstrated over the past 13 months. “Indicators are now within the margin of error, and some online communities show overwhelming support,” he noted. “Depending on how party members vote, this could be a neck-and-neck race until the end.”

He also emphasized a commitment to a clean campaign, saying, “There’s hope among members that there will be no divisive or negative tactics in this convention.” The key, he added, will be “how candidates like Jeong Cheong-rae and I appeal to members with our distinct personalities and strengths.”

Addressing the political clash over his proposed “Special Act on Insurrection” — which the ruling People Power Party countered with its own “Anti-Authoritarianism Bill” — Park responded, “I don’t understand why they’re reacting so strongly to our insurrection bill. Are they an insurrectionist party or remnants of one? The PPP needs to come to its senses.”

He continued, “Has the PPP ever taken firm action against the illegal martial law plot that undermined the foundation of democracy? If they don’t break away from the legacy of insurrection, they have no future. I urge them to cross that river and become a party that serves the people.”

On prosecutorial reform, Park said, “If we make the decision, the legislation could pass in the August plenary session,” adding, “We aim to complete public consultations by September so that by Chuseok, people can talk about the prosecution reform being legislatively finalized.”