0
Democratic Party leadership candidates Jung Chung-rae (left) and Park Chan-dae pose for a photo ahead of their televised debate at the SBS studio in Mok-dong, Seoul, on July 16. / Source: National Assembly Press Corps

The two leading contenders for the Democratic Party (DP) chairmanship, Rep. Jung Chung-rae and Rep. Park Chan-dae, clashed in their first televised debate on July 16, emphasizing contrasting leadership styles while both strongly endorsing rapid prosecution reform.

Opening the debate, the candidates highlighted their roles during the impeachment proceedings against former President Yoon Suk-yeol. Jung presented himself as a bold reformer, while Park positioned himself as a stable team player. Despite differences in tone, they were unified in their call for swift reform of the prosecution service.

“Absolute power corrupts absolutely,” Jung asserted, while Park added, “If we decide, we can get it done by August,” signaling urgency in legislative action.

However, their approaches to the opposition People Power Party (PPP), which they both characterized as a force of “insurrection,” revealed nuanced differences. Jung advocated for a hardline stance, even suggesting the PPP could be subject to a constitutional dissolution request. Park took a more measured view, stressing the importance of due process, saying, “We’ve already set up a special counsel and a separate judiciary process. Let’s wait for the results.”

The candidates also diverged on how to manage inter-party relations. Jung favored a confrontational “breakthrough” approach, stating, “The party will handle the fights, so the president can focus on governance.” He argued that with a parliamentary majority, the DP should push reforms through sheer numbers.

In contrast, Park underscored dialogue and principled negotiation. “We cannot abandon cooperative politics,” he said, “though we won’t engage in shady deals.” He added that dialogue must be built on a foundation of trust developed over time.

When asked whether they could openly criticize President Lee Jae-myung, the frontrunner in the DP and sitting president, their responses diverged significantly. Park stated, “If necessary, I won’t hesitate to speak up.” Jung, however, avoided a direct answer and instead emphasized loyalty, saying, “I will move as one with President Lee. His success is my destiny as party leader.”

They also sparred over how to enhance party member participation. Jung proposed holding “party concerts” to boost engagement and morale. Anticipating this, Park dismissed such events as populist, instead pledging structural reforms such as allowing members to approve strategic nominations.