Seoul: The presidential candidate of the minor New Reform Party (NRP), Lee Jun-seok, stated on Tuesday that he takes full responsibility for the election results as exit polls indicated his campaign did not meet expectations, registering single-digit support.
According to Yonhap News Agency, all four exit polls released after voting concluded suggested that Lee would secure less than 9 percent of the vote, with a joint exit poll by KBS, MBC, and SBS placing him at 7.7 percent. "I am fully responsible for the outcome of this election," Lee remarked at a situation room at the National Assembly following the release of the exit poll results. He expressed gratitude to the party members, supporters, and the public for their dedication and support.
Lee highlighted that the NRP has established itself as a party that successfully completed both the general and presidential elections with Tuesday's election. He acknowledged the intensity of the presidential election and hoped it would bring an end to the turmoil caused by the martial law crisis, allowing South Korea to progress.
Furthermore, Lee mentioned that his party will carefully analyze its strengths and weaknesses to prepare for the local elections next year.