Jang Dong-hyuk's US trip sparks internal criticism, with some fearing election abandonment

The Hankyoreh reports on the controversial US trip undertaken by Jang Dong-hyuk, the leader of South Korea's People Power Party. While Jang's visit is framed by some within the party as an effort to rally conservative support, it has sparked significant internal criticism. Many within the party view his absence during a crucial election period as a sign of abandonment, with some openly questioning if he has already conceded the upcoming local elections.

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The chairman conveyed a strong message: 'vote more, cheat less.'

Jang's activities in Washington D.C., including meetings with conservative think tanks like the Heritage Foundation and engagement with Republican officials such as RNC Chair Michael Whatley and Congressman Darrell Issa, have been particularly scrutinized. The involvement of Kim Min-soo, a supreme council member known for promoting unsubstantiated claims of election fraud, in these meetings has further fueled the controversy. Kim's Facebook posts highlighted discussions on preventing voter fraud, a sensitive issue domestically, and his meeting with Issa, who has previously criticized the South Korean government's response to the Coupang data breach, has been interpreted as a move to appeal to a hardline conservative base.

Adding to the internal dissent, Jang is reportedly seeking a meeting with Paula White, a pastor known as Donald Trump's spiritual mentor and a key figure in the White House Faith Office. This pursuit of a meeting, especially after White facilitated a meeting between South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and Trump, has led to speculation that Jang might be attempting to secure a surprise encounter with the former US president. This strategic move, if successful, could be seen as an attempt to leverage high-profile connections, but it also risks further alienating party members focused on the immediate electoral challenges at home.

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I am concerned that he might be giving up on the election.

The internal backlash is palpable, with figures like Rep. Bae Hyun-jin expressing concern that Jang might be "giving up on the election." Similarly, Rep. Joo Ho-young alluded to a local saying comparing Jang's absence to a mourner leaving a funeral to attend a karaoke session, highlighting the perceived inappropriateness of his actions. The criticism from within the party suggests a deep divide in strategy and priorities, with some prioritizing immediate electoral gains while others, like Jang, appear to be pursuing a more internationally-focused, albeit controversial, agenda.

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It's like a mourner not staying at the funeral home but going to a karaoke bar.