Lee Pledges Political Partnership with Park

Grand National Party (GNP) presidential candidate Lee Myung-bak said on Sunday, “I will join hands with former Chairwoman Park Geun-hye to win the presidential election and will continue to work together with her even after the GNP takes power as a political partner and a precious companion.”

“I highly regard Park’s political leadership and her patriotism,” Lee added during a press conference held at the party headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul. “In order to change the government, I will try to hold regular meetings with Park and current Chairman Kang Jae-sup and thoroughly discuss various issues with them with an open mind.”

He also clearly stated that he would not intervene in the nomination of candidates for next year’s general elections, saying, “The presidential elections and general elections will be strictly carried out based on party regulations and constitutions drawn up by the party chairperson. I might have been inconsiderate and cold-hearted, and did not make a genuine effort to unite the party after winning the primary. Everything is my fault."

Regarding this, Park’s aide Rep. Kim Moo-sung said, “I think Park will briefly express her view on candidate Lee’s comments on Tuesday. However, I am not sure of the exact content.”

taylor55@donga.com