Encouraging Youth in South Korean Politics
Lee Jung-hyun, the current head of the People Power Party's nomination management committee, issued a compelling appeal on Sunday, February 16th, for young individuals to actively engage in regional politics. Speaking from a press conference held at the National Assembly in Seoul, Lee pledged to cultivate a more equitable and accessible system for candidate selection within the party. His message, disseminated via a Facebook post, urged the nation's youth to embrace their role as the "driving force for political change."
Lee articulated his vision for a revitalized South Korean political landscape, one built in collaboration with the younger demographic. He drew upon historical parallels, stating, "Throughout Korea's history, when young people moved forward, the nation changed and the times advanced." He characterized today's youth as inheritors of an era marked by democratization and post-Cold War stability, asserting that the political sphere must fundamentally adapt to integrate their perspectives and energy.
A Call for Active Participation and Fair Nomination
In his discourse, Lee Jung-hyun emphasized that genuine political evolution and generational shifts are not externally imposed. "Generational and political change do not come from someone else," he stated. Instead, he posited that such transformations are initiated and propelled by the active involvement and leadership of young people themselves.
Lee's administration aims to foster an environment where nominations are not preordained but are the result of diligent effort and a willingness to compete. He firmly declared, "Nominations are not given to predetermined individuals but earned by those who challenge." This philosophy underscores his commitment to dismantling traditional barriers that have historically favored established interests, financial clout, and name recognition, thereby opening avenues for new talent to emerge.
Empowering Youth in Local Governance
The People Power Party leader encouraged aspiring young politicians to consider pursuing various local offices. This includes roles on city, county, and district councils, as well as mayoral and gubernatorial positions. Lee's objective is to ensure that youth participation transcends mere symbolic representation, aiming instead for their involvement in positions of genuine authority and influence.
The committee under Lee Jung-hyun is dedicated to upholding principles of fair competition and reducing the hurdles that have often favored established figures. He stressed that the political arena is transformed by active participants rather than passive observers, reinforcing the idea that change is driven by those who step forward and engage directly. The photo accompanying this report was taken by Asia Today.
