In a significant political development, Song Young-gil, the leader of the New Future Party, publicly declared his support for Lee Jae-myung, a candidate from the Democratic Party, on May 9, 2025. This announcement, made via a letter from prison, was revealed during a press conference held by party officials at the National Assembly.
Song emphasized that the upcoming presidential election is not merely a contest between progressives and conservatives. Instead, he described it as a crucial moment to judge the administration of Yoon Suk-yeol and the forces he claims are undermining freedom and the constitutional order in South Korea. "This election is about holding Yoon Suk-yeol and his followers accountable for their actions that threaten our democratic values," he stated.
He further articulated that the New Future Party, established as a political prosecution liquidation party, aims to lead efforts to dismantle the prosecutorial power that has been allegedly abused under Yoon's administration. "We will fight to investigate and punish those responsible for the scandals surrounding Yoon Suk-yeol and Kim Keon-hee, as well as their accomplices in internal crimes," Song declared.
Song's support for Lee Jae-myung comes at a time when he himself is facing legal challenges. He was sentenced to two years in prison for accepting illegal political funds through the Institute for Peace and Livelihood Issues. Despite his incarceration, he remains vocal about his political ambitions and the need for change in South Korea's political landscape.
During the press conference, party officials read out Song's letter, which highlighted the importance of this election in safeguarding the constitutional order. "This election is not a battle between ideologies but a fight for the very essence of our democracy, which was hard-won during the June Struggle of 1987," he noted. Song urged supporters to rally behind Lee, emphasizing the need to protect the sovereignty of the people, allowing them to directly elect their president.
In his letter, he also stressed the necessity of uniting the party's resources to ensure Lee's overwhelming victory. "The New Future Party will not field its own candidate but will instead mobilize every member to support Lee Jae-myung in this crucial election," he explained. This strategic decision reflects the party's commitment to prioritize constitutional integrity over individual political ambitions.
Song's situation is emblematic of the broader political turbulence in South Korea, where allegations of corruption and abuse of power have sparked widespread public discontent. He criticized the Yoon administration's handling of various issues, asserting that it has prioritized political vendettas over the public good.
He pointed out that the current administration has acted as a "criminal regime" that uses its prosecutorial power to silence dissent and protect its interests. "We must gather national energy to dismantle the political prosecution that has become a tool for private revenge and oppression," he urged.
The New Future Party's endorsement of Lee Jae-myung is seen as a tactical maneuver to consolidate opposition against the ruling party, which has faced increasing scrutiny. With the election approaching, the political landscape remains charged, and the stakes are high for all involved.
As the campaign heats up, the focus will likely shift to how effectively Lee can rally support from various factions, including those aligned with Song's party. The dynamics between the parties, particularly in light of the ongoing legal issues surrounding key figures like Song, will be crucial in shaping voter sentiment.
In conclusion, as the May 2025 election draws near, the implications of Song Young-gil's support for Lee Jae-myung could be profound. It highlights not only the internal struggles within South Korean politics but also the urgent call for accountability and reform that resonates with many voters. The outcome of this election may very well determine the future direction of the country's political landscape.
