Excluding Han Dong-hoon Risks Weakening Conservatives, Analysts Say

A debate is intensifying within South Korea's conservative political circles regarding the potential return of Han Dong-hoon to the People Power Party (PPP). Analysts warn that moves to exclude Han could significantly weaken the entire conservative movement.

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If Han Dong-hoon is completely excluded from the league and the remaining people compete among themselves, the People Power Party will inevitably become a minor league.

Park Won-seok, former Justice Party lawmaker, commented on the recent public criticism of Han by Ahn Cheol-soo, a PPP lawmaker. Park suggested Ahn's actions might be politically motivated, aligning with the sentiments of the PPP's mainstream faction from the Yeongnam region. "If Han Dong-hoon is completely excluded from the league and the remaining people compete among themselves, the People Power Party will inevitably become a minor league," Park stated, emphasizing the need to grow the conservative base rather than focusing solely on internal competition.

Kim Jong-hyuk, a former PPP Supreme Council member and a supporter of Han, addressed Ahn's recent testimony about a past martial law situation. While not accusing Ahn of intentional falsehood, Kim stressed the importance of correcting factual inaccuracies. He expressed concern that distorted narratives could emerge, suggesting Han acted alone during the martial law period to elevate his own status.

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I do not believe Ahn Cheol-soo intentionally made a false statement. He might have been mistaken or spoken based on what he heard.

Kim also criticized harsh language used by some Han supporters against Ahn, stating politicians must endure insults. He also noted Ahn's retaliatory remarks, suggesting such exchanges are not conducive to healthy politics. The discussion also covered the Reform Party and its leader, Lee Jun-seok, with Park predicting Lee will soon have to decide between maintaining an independent path or seeking integration with the PPP. Kim characterized Lee's political style as one of division and counter-strategy, often using new controversies to overshadow previous ones.

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The Reform Party has essentially become a party that relies solely on Lee Jun-seok's competitiveness. A time will soon come when a decision must be made whether to continue on an independent path or choose conservative integration with the People Power Party.