Ex-prime minister resumes political activity

Former Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon, right, receives a bouquet of flowers from Democratic Party of Korea Chairman Lee Hae-chan at the National Assembly, Seoul, as a welcome gift to resume the party's affairs as a permanent adviser, Wednesday, a day after he left the prime minister position. / Korea Times photo by Oh Dae-geun

By Kim Rahn

Former Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon was named a permanent adviser to the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), Wednesday, a day after he left the post.

One of the strongest contenders for the next president, Lee is expected to run for the Jongno District in the upcoming April 15 general election, and possibly head the party's committee on election strategy.

“I returned to the party after six years of being away while working as the governor of South Jeolla Province and prime minister,” Lee said ahead of a party meeting at the National Assembly.

“I'll do what I can and must do faithfully while talking with the party on every issue.”

DPK Chairman Lee Hae-chan said Lee has sufficient experience in and knowledge of politics. “As an adviser, the former prime minister is expected to play a key role when the party's election strategy committee is launched,” the chairman said.

The former prime minister said he and the party would soon decide exactly what role he needs to play in the election.

It is widely expected he will run for the Jongno constituency ― becoming a lawmaker representing the central Seoul district has been considered a stepping stone for potential presidential candidates to get a foothold and solidify their presence for any future bid. Former Presidents Roh Moo-hyun and Lee Myung-bak followed this path.

When asked whether he has decided to run in Jongno, Lee Nak-yon said, “It is the party that will make the final decision on the matter. It is true that I'm moving to a house in Jongno, but running is up to the party.”