Jang Dong-hyuk, the leader of the People Power Party (PPP), visited former President Yoon Seok-yeol, who is imprisoned on charges of leading an insurrection. This move triggered criticism that the PPP, which was striving to recover its approval ratings by leveraging the ruling party’s missteps, cannot escape the “insurrection party” image.
According to the PPP, Jang visited Yoon at the Seoul Detention Center on the morning of the 17th, accompanied by senior party official Kim Min-soo. After a previous request for a special visit was denied last month, they proceeded this time with a general meeting.
Jang announced the visit on Facebook, commenting that Yoon was deeply rooted in scripture and prayer despite his difficult circumstances. He called for unity in fighting to save the free Republic of Korea from collapsing under a “leftist government.”
The PPP had been attempting to boost its approval ratings by highlighting issues unfavorable to the ruling party, such as real estate regulations, crime problems in Cambodia, stalemated South Korea-U.S. tariff negotiations, and a fire at the National Information Resource Management Service. During the National Assembly audit, the PPP also increased pressure by demanding the testimony of Kim Hyun-ji, a close associate of President Lee Jae-myung. Consequently, recent opinion polls showed a decline in the ruling party’s support and a rise for the PPP.
However, Jang’s visit to Yoon is seen as potentially hindering the PPP’s momentum. Critics argue that instead of acknowledging the wrongdoing in the alleged coup-related actions for which Yoon is being investigated, the PPP appears to be reinforcing its image of alignment with those actions. This stance may fail to attract moderate support, which could limit the party’s growth beyond its current 20% approval range.
Within the party, some lawmakers voiced objections. Lawmaker Jeong Seong-guk expressed on Facebook that Jang is responsible for the PPP’s potential downfall. Rep. Kim Jae-seop also questioned the necessity of the visit amid opportunities arising from the ruling party’s shortcomings.
Criticism extended beyond the PPP. Democratic Party leader Jeong Cheong-lae accused the visit of mocking the constitution and challenging democracy, while Cho Seung-rae criticized the PPP for supporting someone accused of insurrection. Jo Guk, Chair of the Korea Innovation Party, reiterated that the PPP’s transformation into an extreme right party is increasingly apparent.
In response, the PPP leadership attempted damage control. Spokesperson Choi Bo-yoon urged against overinterpreting Jang’s visit, explaining it as fulfilling an election promise to meet with Yoon.