Han Dong-hoon joins pro-Yoon 'Future Innovation Forum'; is this a prelude to rejoining the People Power Party?

Independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon has joined a parliamentary research group largely composed of lawmakers aligned with former President Yoon Suk-yeol, fueling speculation that he is laying the groundwork for his return to the People Power Party.

The 'Future Innovation Forum,' headed by People Power Party lawmaker Kim Gi-hyeon, confirmed that Han joined the group. The forum, which initially consisted mainly of pro-Yoon lawmakers, now includes a significant number of pro-Han politicians, alongside members like Na Kyung-won, Yoon Sang-hyun, Kim Jung-jae, and Lee Man-hee. Notably, Lee Jun-seok, leader of the Reform Party, and Han Byung-do, the Democratic Party's floor leader, are also members.

Han, who was expelled from the People Power Party in January last year, has expressed his desire for readmission since winning a by-election in Busan's Buk-gu, Gap constituency. His recent move to join the forum is interpreted as a strategic effort to expand his network and build rapport with key figures within the party before formally seeking to rejoin.

A pro-Yoon lawmaker commented that Han likely aims to shift the sentiment among party members, which is necessary for his readmission, by first establishing connections through the forum. The forum is also drawing attention as Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon is scheduled to speak at an event on June 24th, potentially bringing together prominent conservative political figures.

This development signals Han's active engagement in party politics as he navigates his path back to the People Power Party, leveraging existing political networks to strengthen his position.

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Han is trying to create connections first, as he needs to change the atmosphere among lawmakers to be readmitted.