Former Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Nam-guk has sharply criticized Cho Kuk, the leader of the Justice Party, for his decision to run in the upcoming Jeonnam by-election in October. Kim argued that Cho’s campaign is a misplaced priority and a strategy to appease party members, rather than focusing on the nation’s pressing concerns. Kim, in a social media post, criticized Cho’s statement about vying with the Democratic Party, particularly in Jeonnam, saying it neglects the broader national interests and the voices of the people. Cho had previously announced his party’s intention to participate in the by-election, specifically mentioning the potential for a competitive race in Jeonnam. However, Kim countered that Cho’s focus on a regional by-election is a diversion from the real issues facing the country, and that the competition between the Justice Party and the Democratic Party should not be centered on a localized contest. He further stated that Cho’s strategy is essentially a way to appease party members and maintain the status quo in the political landscape, instead of addressing the people’s demands.