(EDITORIAL from Korea JoongAng Daily on June 25) (opens original article in a new tab)

Democratic Party leader Jung Chung-rae stepped down, triggering intensified factional tensions as rivals vie for control, raising concerns about the party's focus on internal conflicts over addressing economic and social issues.

• Democratic Party leader Jung Chung-rae stepped down to seek another term at the party's August national convention.
• Factional tensions within the ruling party are intensifying with rivals including Prime Minister Kim Min-seok and former party leader Song Young-gil.
• The internal contest risks overshadowing urgent economic and social challenges as the ruling party focuses on power struggles.