Resuming Political Activities with Publication, “The pre-order for ‘The People First,’ written by former People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon, began on the 19th. Han is expected to resume his political activities in earnest with the book’s release on the 26th.”
“On this day, Kyobo Book Centre and Yes24 among others started pre-orders for ‘The People First – Han Dong-hoon’s Choice’.”
The publisher introduces the book saying, “It encapsulates Han Dong-hoon’s ‘choices’ and ‘thoughts’ for the people while crossing the sea of martial law into a new era. The book is divided into two parts: ‘Han Dong-hoon’s Choice’ and ‘Han Dong-hoon’s Thoughts’.”
“‘Han Dong-hoon’s Choice’ details the 14 days and 300 hours covering his opposition to martial law, resolution to lift martial law, attempts for an orderly early resignation, passing of the presidential impeachment bill, and stepping down from party leadership. ‘Han Dong-hoon’s Thoughts’, presented in a conversational format, explores his reasons for engaging in politics, his mission as a public servant, and his vision of a happy nation, revealing his political beliefs and philosophy.”
Regarding Han, the author, he is described as “a liberal democrat who values reason, rationality, common sense, and the people’s perspective.” The description further notes, “As a conservative, he emphasizes principles and responsibility and is truly committed to establishing law and order and reducing inequalities. He challenges authority and aims to reform outdated politics, sparking a new wind in Korean politics with his ‘strong against the strong and weak against the weak’ stance.”
Han is expected to officially announce his return to politics through events like book concerts or lectures following the book’s release on the 26th. In the context of a potential early presidential election, his actions are interpreted by political circles as a prelude to a possible candidacy.
After the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol was passed in December last year, Han stepped down from his leadership position on December 16. Having remained out of the public eye since, he sought advice regarding his future direction from veteran politicians around the Lunar New Year. On February 16, two months after resigning, he hinted at resuming his political activities via social media, stating, “I’ll see you soon.”