People Power Party Leads Democratic Party by Large Margin Among 20s Voters with 47.2% Approval: Capturing Shifting Youth Sentiment

According to a nationwide survey conducted by the Korea Social Opinion Research Institute (KSOI) from the 18th to the 19th, the People Power Party recorded 47.2% and the Democratic Party recorded 27.0% in party approval ratings among young people in their 20s, showing a significant gap of 20.2%p. This indicates a sharp decline in Democratic Party support and a clear preference for the People Power Party among young people in their 20s.

The 2030 generation shows a strong tendency to react very sensitively to tangible policies rather than political messages. In particular, they tend to react immediately to economic issues such as real estate prices, employment problems, and loan regulations, as well as the fairness of politics and politicians changing their statements. This is interpreted as being due to their lack of experience and wisdom, which makes them more directly affected by policy failures.

The selection of the song 'Bus Aneseo' at the Democratic Party's national convention sparked controversy over its intention to disparage youth. This was pointed out as a clear example of the Democratic Party's lack of sensitivity to youth policy, revealing a significant disconnect between the actual sentiment of young people and the Democratic Party's perception. This lack of awareness appears to have contributed to the decline in the Democratic Party's approval rating among the youth.

The 2030 generation tends to obtain information more through new media channels like YouTube than through traditional legacy media. This change in information consumption patterns has improved young people's ability to discern the truth of information and contributed to their better selection of parties that listen to their voices and implement policies. Consequently, this smart political choice is analyzed to have created the current gap in approval ratings.

Recent data shows a significant shift in the sentiment of female voters in their 20s and 30s. In particular, many women expressed doubts about the Democratic Party's actions regarding sexual offense victims and measures, tending to withdraw their support. This change is clearly reflected in the approval rating data for women in their 20s and 30s.

The diplomatic repercussions of Representative Lee Jae-myung's 'No Thanks' remark have expanded, exacerbating difficulties in relations with the United States. President Trump became enraged by the remark, even disclosing the conversation to the media, and Kim Yo-jong of North Korea's fierce criticism of Lee Jae-myung further deepened his isolation in inter-Korean relations. This shows that Representative Lee Jae-myung's position in the international community is in a 'besieged on all sides' situation.

Immediately after the decision to reduce the ROK-US joint exercises and Representative Lee Jae-myung's 'No Thanks' remark, North Korea fired 10 missiles into the East Sea. This demonstrates that North Korea immediately reacted to changes in South Korea's security policy, such as the reduction of joint exercises, by carrying out military provocations. Such actions by North Korea raise questions about South Korea's security capabilities and highlight the need to prepare for North Korea's strengthening military power.

It was pointed out that refusing cooperation or assistance from the US military against North Korea, which is preparing for war, is tantamount to abandoning security. Concerns are rising that the current government's security policy, which responded inappropriately to former President Trump's question about self-defense capabilities, could jeopardize South Korea's security amidst the North Korean threat.

The opinion was raised that trust in the current Minister of National Defense is very low. In particular, it was mentioned that the distrust in the current minister is severe, citing various controversies such as desertion allegations, when compared to past Ministers of National Defense.

Despite former President Trump's transactional demands, the current government interpreted this as a major decision reflecting deep consideration for peace on the Korean Peninsula, drawing criticism that it was nothing more than 'spiritual victory.' This attitude of the government has led to concerns about the possibility of US troop withdrawal and the recurrence of the Korean War after the reduction of joint exercises. Even within the ruling party, such a government response is evaluated as 'spiritual victory'.

The final round of 'I Am Conservative' will take place today, Friday, the 21st, at 6 PM. Participants Park Min-young, Park Sang-hyun, Lee Yoon-gyu, and Choi Jae will compete for the prize money of 10 million won. The final will include a star-studded judging panel, including Lee Jin-suk and Ko Dae-young, who will witness the birth of the next-generation conservative leader.

The need for new speakers who can effectively communicate with the public has been consistently raised within the conservative camp. The 'I Am Conservative' program is evaluated as playing an important role in discovering various new figures and showcasing their capabilities against this backdrop. Participants gained new experiences and learning through debates with participants of opposing viewpoints, and the program achieved great success to the extent that its recognition was felt even at party events.

This program goes beyond simply begging for votes; it contributes to enhancing the political capabilities and qualities of young politicians through logical debate. Participants showed growth by logically presenting their arguments and refuting opposing opinions. All participants, including those who were eliminated, are considered valuable assets of the People Power Party.

In this final round of 'I Am Conservative,' Park Min-young is considered the most likely winner. Park Min-young is expected to show strength based on her excellent rhetoric and extensive debate experience. However, Lee Yoon-gyu, who will also compete in the final, also possesses formidable skills, and his prepared strategies and debate skills will also be key viewing points. A fierce showdown between the two participants is anticipated.