Jang Dong-hyuk's Power Play Alienates Allies, Analysts Say

Internal strife within South Korea's People Power Party is intensifying, with analysts suggesting a widening rift between party leader Jang Dong-hyuk and lawmaker Ahn Cheol-soo. During the Dong-A Ilbo's political live show "Legal Mockery," lawyer Kang Soo-young argued that Jang's emphasis on party loyalty and "combativeness" is alienating most within the party, except for a small faction loyal to the leadership. Kang suggested that Jang's aggressive stance on personnel reshuffling, particularly targeting regional factions, is a move to consolidate power. Meanwhile, Ahn Cheol-soo is reportedly focusing on the upcoming general election, emphasizing the importance of the Seoul metropolitan area and younger voters. This strategic difference is seen as creating a subtle temperature gap between the two politicians. Lawyer Park Sang-soo commented that Jang might perceive Ahn as a rival, especially if Ahn gains traction, but also noted that Jang's current strategy risks a strong backlash. The discussion also extended to the Democratic Party's upcoming August 17 convention. Lawyer Kang suggested that Gyeonggi Province Governor Choo Mi-ae's remarks supporting a particular candidate might be a strategic move to absorb the candidate's supporters if they fail to win the party leadership, potentially for her own future presidential bid. Adding a broader societal observation, the program explored the changing political sentiments among younger generations. Lawyer Kang recounted an anecdote from a high school in Chungnam Province where students cheered the likely victory of Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon during the local elections, likening it to celebrating a World Cup goal. This reaction, Kang suggested, indicates a strong rejection of the Democratic Party among teenagers, a sentiment the party has neglected for years. Kang argued that the progressive movement's image has shifted from one of resistance and championing the underdog to one perceived as neither just nor competent, leading to a loss of appeal among young voters who see the party's established figures as hypocritical and out of touch.

“

If Ahn Cheol-soo appears like this, it's no different than Jang Dong-hyuk gaining a rival.