Lee Jun-seok Warns of Political Turmoil if Lee Jae-myung Wins Presidency

On May 31, just three days before the 21st presidential election, Lee Jun-seok, the presidential candidate for the Reform Party, expressed his concerns during a rally in Pyeongchon Rodeo Street, Anyang. He stated, "I am convinced that if Lee Jae-myung becomes president, he will initiate a political upheaval akin to the purges during former President Moon Jae-in's administration."

Speaking to reporters in front of KT Wiz Park in Suwon, Lee criticized Lee Jae-myung, saying, "All I see from him is a desire to divide the people into 'my side' or 'the enemy.'" He cautioned against the dangers of political polarization, suggesting that Lee and the Democratic Party are preparing for extensive political retaliation.

During his campaign stops in Anyang and Suwon, Lee emphasized the need to break the cycle of political purges. He remarked, "Former President Moon enjoyed a popularity rating of over 70% after his election, but he used that support to suppress people under the guise of purging corruption." He added, "I never expected Moon to be so obsessed with purging corruption after his election, which ultimately led to a real estate crisis and rising prices."

Lee further warned that if Lee Jae-myung is elected, he would likely turn South Korea into a stage for political drama, focusing on revenge and the end of internal strife. He stated, "Lee Jae-myung is already prioritizing talk of ending internal strife and seeking revenge."

He also pointed out the external pressures South Korea faces, mentioning that former U.S. President Donald Trump is pressuring the country through tariff negotiations, while China is advancing in the technological competition. Lee concluded that the focus should not be on suppressing political opponents but rather on addressing these significant challenges.

In a related note, Lee Jae-myung had previously commented on the December 3 martial law, suggesting that someone from the People Power Party may have colluded and that those responsible within the government should be punished. This has led to speculation that Lee Jae-myung is hinting at a large-scale investigation targeting the Yoon Suk-yeol administration if he comes to power. He even remarked about former President Yoon, saying, "He may have slipped out of jail, but he should go back."