Four-term lawmaker Jung Chung-rae becomes ruling DP’s leader

The ruling Democratic Party launched its new leadership at its national convention over the weekend, electing four-term lawmaker Jung Chung-rae as party leader.

Our political correspondent Shin Ha-young reports.

Four-term lawmaker Jung Chung-rae has been elected as the new leader of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea.

At the party's national convention on Saturday, Jung won with 61-point-7-4 percent of the vote, defeating rival candidate Park Chan-dae , the party's former floor leader.

In his acceptance speech, Jung said that he would quickly push ahead with prosecution, media, and judiciary reforms.

"As soon as the party convention ends, I will launch task forces to reform the prosecution, media and judiciary. I will complete these three reforms before the Chuseok holiday."

During the press conference, Jung said he is unable to work hand in hand with the main opposition People Power Party as it still includes members who support former President Yoon Suk Yeol.

"We're at war with the insurrection. It's not about ruling and opposition parties."

Jung also emphasized that he would make sure the party, government, and presidential office work together as one to support the success of the Lee Jae Myung administration.

According to the Presidential Office, President Lee called Jung on Saturday to congratulate him on his win and emphasized the importance of a "one team spirit" and working effectively for the people.

Saturday's convention was held to fill the leadership vacancy after former party leader Lee Jae Myung was elected president in June.

Jung will serve the rest of Lee's term over the next year and lead the party in next year's local elections.

First on his public schedule as the new leader, Jung visited the city of Naju in Jeollanam-do Province on Sunday to help with flood recovery efforts.

Meanwhile, following Kim Min-seok's resignation from the Supreme Council after becoming Prime Minister, the vacant seat was filled by Hwang Myeong-seon , the sole candidate, who was elected with a majority of the vote.

Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.