The friendly competition between Jeong Cheong-rae and Park Chan-dae - The united Democratic Party will not be shaken by divisiveness.

The essence of party politics is competition and integration.

Democracy is a system that enables better choices through competition. Political parties are at the core of that democracy, as the process of creating the leadership that the people desire through competition. Selecting a party leader is not just about choosing an individual it is a significant choice that gauges the direction and philosophy of the party. Therefore, the competition among various candidates and the clash of different visions actually serve as indicators of the party's health. The Democratic Party is currently at a critical crossroads. With the upcoming 2024 general election, the 2026 local elections, and the long-term task of potentially reestablishing the next administration, the candidacies of Representatives Jeong Cheong-rae and Park Chan-dae in the party leader primary demonstrate the dynamism and resilience of the Democratic Party. Both candidates are individuals with extensive experience and a clear political identity, offering party members a serious opportunity to make a choice. The two candidates have fought alongside Representative Lee Jae-myung against the runaway policies of the Yoon Seok-yeol administration. While they are in a competitive position, their values and visions align towards the same goal of strengthening and unifying the Democratic Party. This primary is not about hostility but rather a ‘friendly competition’ for a better Democratic Party.

The atmosphere shaken by division, the frame blurring the essence

However, the essence of this competition is being distorted. Some media outlets are framing this primary as a 'division of the pro-Myeong faction,' pushing the competition towards division and the choices towards conflict. Sensational terms like 'true Myeong competition' and 'King Watermelon controversy' are rampant, and biased reporting against both Jeong Cheong-rae and Park Chan-dae is ongoing. The online space is no exception. Through platforms like YouTube, open chat rooms, and communities, there are repeated remarks mocking specific candidates or attacking supporters of opposing candidates. Remarks claiming that candidate Jeong Cheong-rae 'is not capable' or the label 'hidden pro-Myeong faction' placed on candidate Park Chan-dae are not only false but also products of intentional distortion. This trend indicates that an 'intentional strategy' is at work, aiming to shake and divide the Democratic Party beyond mere fan competition. Whether it is from internal fringe groups or external political forces, attempts to divide and undermine the unity of the Democratic Party must not be tolerated.

Two candidates practicing the 'One Team Spirit'

What is noteworthy is that, contrary to the trend of inciting this conflict, both candidates are consistently emphasizing the spirit of 'One Team Democratic Party.' Candidate Jeong Cheong-rae states that he will maintain focus with a strong message and fighting spirit, but he refrains from directly criticizing candidate Park Chan-dae. He has clearly expressed his stance, saying, 'Regardless of who becomes the party leader, we are comrades who will work together for the unity of the party.' Candidate Park Chan-dae also emphasizes, based on stable leadership, that he will 'support the success of the Yoon Seok-yeol government through integration and harmony.' He repeatedly stresses that 'attacks towards the party's internal matters must stop,' directly cautioning against the overheating of fandoms. Although the leadership styles of the two candidates are different, they share the core values of the victory and unity of the Democratic Party. This reflects the mature competition that democracy aims for and the dignity of party politics.

What will party members and supporters choose?

The important question is this: what attitude will the members and supporters choose? Will we be swayed by the media's conflict framing, or will we support the mature competitive attitude that both candidates demonstrate? The future of the party is ultimately determined by the level of its supporters. While the candidates may differ, we are all comrades on the same ship called the Democratic Party. When we acknowledge that differing opinions can exist and embrace them, the party truly becomes stronger. Fandom politics can also be a source of energy for democracy. However, when it leads to division or hatred, it undermines the foundations of democracy. Now is the time to respect each other's choices with mature civic awareness and to share the responsibility towards the community.

Conclusion: The Democratic Party Moves Forward

The competition within the party should be an opportunity for growth, not conflict. Jung Cheong-rae and Park Chan-dae each talk about the future of the Democratic Party with their own visions, and the process of party members directly judging and making choices is democracy itself. While divisive frames may have temporary effects, the essence does not change. Through this primary election, we must create a stronger Democratic Party, a more united party, and a clearer vision. Both candidates care for the Democratic Party. Their competition is for the sake of the party, and we must support that spirit. Whomever becomes the representative will be a leader who guides the entire Democratic Party, and we must walk together on the path towards becoming a 'capable reform party,' as emphasized by Representative Lee Jae-myung. Party members and citizens are wise. Even at this moment, we can unwaveringly support fair competition and work together to shape the future of the Democratic Party. That is the healthy politics we should aspire to and the strong Democratic Party we envision.