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English translation by NJT.

BK Park

NJT Staff Writer 

Seoul, South Korea — South Korean politician Lee Jun-seok has been a frequent topic in the nation's major news outlets almost daily over the past month, attracting more media attention than even President Yoon Suk Yeol or Lee Jae-myung, the former presidential candidate and current representative of the Democratic Party. This increased media focus has naturally heightened public interest in Lee, especially among the centrist demographic.

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On the 26th, a talk concert in Daegu featuring Lee Jun-seok and Cheon-A-Yong-In drew significant attention, with 1,600 attendees demonstrating keen interest in Lee and his new party. A Harvard University graduate, Lee studied computer science and economics in Massachusetts, bringing a fresh style of communication and politics to South Korea. His rational explanations and data-driven commentary have been a refreshing change in the Korean political landscape.

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Despite the spotlight over the past month, Lee has faced challenges in garnering broader centrist support due to his ambiguous statements regarding the founding of his new party. He has hinted several times at a possible return to the People Power Party, which could dissuade centrists from supporting him.

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Lee's online supporter network has amassed over 40,000 participants, which seems modest given the recent extensive media coverage and the fact that there are over 40 million voters in South Korea. This modest number may be due to his seemingly tentative approach. He had once stated that the probability of establishing a new party was 50% and would increase by 1% each day from early November. Additionally, his decision seemed contingent on President Yoon Suk Yeol's changing attitude, making centrists hesitant to commit to his online network in an uncertain situation.

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Lee, known for valuing data in politics, appears wise and rational with data but indecisive without it. The historical lack of success for third-party launches in Korea and the absence of solid foundational data for his new party likely contributed to his hesitance.

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In mid-November, when interest in his activities peaked, it might have been more advantageous for Lee to announce the establishment of his new party decisively. His continued ambiguity has led even his centrist supporters to maintain a tentative stance. Returning to the People Power Party could be politically damaging, potentially giving the impression of having misled the public.

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Given this situation, Lee might not need to wait for more data or satisfactory evidence. Although somewhat delayed, an intuitive decision to announce the formation of his new party seems necessary. Continued ambiguity could lead to ongoing political challenges.

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