Under continuous scrutiny from supporters of Cheong regarding Democratic Party of Korea Representative Song Young-gil's support for Kim Kwan-young, an independent contender in the June 3 local election race for governor of North Jeollanam-do, Song remarked on the 11th, "We should prioritize unity rather than discord."
Previously, on the 30th day of the previous month, Song stated during a YouTube stream, "It's inconsistent for the Democratic Party to remove Kim Kwan-young and concentrate their efforts on North Jeolla," noting, "As Kim was also selected by President Lee Jae Myung, this choice should be made based on the opinions of local voters." This occurred as Kim, who had contested the party's move to banish him and subsequently campaigned independently, competed against the Democratic Party's candidate Lee Won-taek.
As a reply, Lee Sung-yoon, a member of the Pro-Cheong Faction's Supreme Council, shared on Facebook on the 7th, "Are you attempting to weaken the party's leadership?" and expressed criticism, saying, "The statements and behavior of former Representative Song are reckless and represent significant damage to the party." The next day, Representative Yoon Joon-byeong remarked, "Song Young-gil, who publicly backed the independent candidate Kim Kwan-young and engaged in acts of disloyalty—shouldn’t he be considered responsible?" and continued, "It feels awkward just to think of him as a possible leader within the Democratic Party."
Lee Won-taek, who won against Kim in the election, shared on Facebook the day before, "Song Young-gil's actions detrimental to the party should face disciplinary measures." The newly elected representative stated, "Song's comments violated those within the party who tirelessly fought to safeguard Democratic Party candidates throughout North Jeolla, constituting an intolerable breach of loyalty."
The song didn't explicitly respond to these critiques. Rather, he shared a post on Facebook on the 11th, mentioning an interview with President Lee Jae Myung featured in *The Economist* the day before. The piece stated, "Since the country became democratic, over half of South Korea's presidents have faced impeachment or imprisonment," and also mentioned, "President Lee admitted that the chance of him falling into this harmful pattern is 'very likely.'"
Song said, "I was shocked when the president talked about the history of impeachment and detention of previous presidents and acknowledged, 'There's a good chance I could become a victim.'” He added, "My recollection of saying goodbye to President Roh Moo-hyun in May 2009 remains clear," and questioned, "What have we understood, what should we remain cautious about, and what do we need to safeguard amidst this sorrow?"
Song stated, "We've already experienced the painful reality of how severe the divisions within the Democratic Party can become." He further noted, "These splits haven't strengthened us; too much harsh critique and blame between each other, once they go beyond bounds, eventually block progress towards bigger objectives."
Song stated, "People who look in the same direction don’t have to blind each other," and emphasized, "We should prioritize the common good rather than feelings, embrace inclusivity instead of separation, and promote solidarity over conflict." He ended with, "Let’s support the Lee Jae Myung administration using the strength of unity and strive to improve citizens' lives."
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