Kim Moon-soo, the former presidential candidate of the People Power Party, is seen holding the hand of former representative Han Dong-hoon and appealing for support at the finale campaign held on the 2nd in Seoul Plaza in front of City Hall. [Photo source = Yonhap News].
Jung Sung-guk, a People Power Party lawmaker classified as belonging to the pro-Han Dong-hoon faction, said, “I used to think various opinions were divided 50-50, but these days it seems many are telling him not to run (for party representative).”
On the 18th, during an interview on YTN Radio’s ‘News Fighting,’ Rep. Jung was asked if former representative Han was challenging for the party leadership. He responded by saying it felt like many within the party have not yet moved past the past sentiments.
He explained, “If former representative Han enters the field at a time when the party is showing signs of change, such as accepting the reform proposal presented by Commissioner Kim Yong-tae or a fierce contest in the election of Song Eon-seok as the floor leader, it could bring hope for opening a new future.”
He continued, “Han Dong-hoon is most prominently emerging as the next leader of the conservatives,” while also expressing concern, “I wonder how difficult it would be for former representative Han to lead such a challenging party.”
Regarding the possibility of former representative Han challenging for party leadership through a national convention, he stated, “Whether it’s Kim Moon-soo or Ahn Cheol-soo, there will be candidates, but I think the hearts of our party members have grown more favorable towards former representative Han.” He added, “Even when he came in second place during the final primary, the momentum seemed to continue. If he runs, I believe he has the highest possibility.”
Rep. Jung referred to the newly elected floor leader Song Eon-seok as being aligned with the pro-Yoon Suk-yeol faction, saying, “Given his activities post-inauguration, it’s correct to view Song as part of the pro-Yoon movement, and there is no need to deny that.”
Regarding whether Floor Leader Song would accept the five major reform plans proposed by Commissioner Kim, he remarked, “It seems he doesn’t want to accept them. Commissioner Kim’s term has only 12 days left. If Floor Leader Song doesn’t respond during this time, I think there is little possibility of them being accepted. If he intended to accept the party’s vote, there would be no reason to delay.”