Han Dong-hoon Eyes Busan By-election; Party Leader Visits US Amid Conservative Debate

The political landscape is abuzz with speculation surrounding former interim leader Han Dong-hoon's potential candidacy in the upcoming by-election for the Busanjin-gu North-Gap seat in Busan. Analysts, including political commentator Kim Jun-il, point to Han's recent and repeated visits to Busan as strong evidence that his mind is made up. Kim highlighted a series of engagements, from visiting the Gupo Market to attending a Lotte Giants baseball game and meeting with local party officials, culminating in securing a residence in the area. This pattern of activity, described as a 'five-hit combo,' suggests a decisive move towards contesting the seat.

The Busanjin-gu North-Gap constituency is currently held by Jeon Jae-soo of the Democratic Party, who is running for Busan mayor. Political commentator Jeong Gwang-jae noted that Jeon's public remarks about Han potentially entering his district indicate a recognition of Han's strong intentions. Jeong suggested that Han's self-description as having an 'easy-to-read mind' might be a strategic political maneuver, though he questioned its effectiveness, referencing Machiavellian principles of maintaining an element of unpredictability.

Further complicating the political narrative is the US trip undertaken by People Power Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk. Kim Jun-il interprets this visit as a calculated response to the growing influence of hardline conservative voices, such as the YouTuber Jeon Han-gil, who recently left the party. Kim posits that Jang's trip is an attempt to assert his role and gain recognition from these factions, suggesting it's a plea of 'look at me, I'm doing something.' However, Kim expressed skepticism about the trip's actual benefit to the party in the upcoming local elections.

Discussions also touched upon potential candidacies in other by-elections. The possibility of Kim Min-soo, a close associate of Jang, running in the Daegu Dalseong by-election if Chu Kyung-ho secures the Daegu mayoral nomination was raised. However, Kim Jun-il voiced concerns about Kim Min-soo's lack of local ties, suggesting it could be perceived as an insult to the constituents. Regarding Cho Kuk's potential by-election candidacy, Jeong Gwang-jae proposed Pyeongtaek-eul, citing the Democratic Party's potential reluctance to field a candidate in a district where the election was triggered by their own 'guilty party' status. Conversely, Kim Jun-il suggested Hanam-gap as a more likely option, hinting at behind-the-scenes negotiations for electoral alliances.