National Power Party in Stalemate as Leader Jang Focuses on Offline Politics

National Power Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk is intensifying his offline political activities, holding rallies and protests despite facing internal criticism and a perceived loss of leadership. His continued focus on "outdoor politics," particularly at Olympic Park, has stalled the party, leaving it in a deadlock with no clear path forward.

Jang has been actively participating in protests demanding a new election, even skipping National Assembly events to attend rallies. He has been seen holding a megaphone, chanting slogans, and creating his own protest signs. In an interview, he stated his attendance at these rallies was a protest against the "collapse of constitutional order" and a way to connect with citizens demanding the restoration of their right to participate in elections.

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I did not attend the Foundation Day event to protest the collapse of constitutional order.

While Jang expands his offline campaign nationwide, the party's floor leader, Jeong Jeong-sik, has been focusing on public livelihood issues, a move interpreted by some as a subtle check on Jang's activities. Although the party leadership explains this as a division of roles to mobilize supporters and expand outreach, others see it as a sign of discord between the party leader and the floor leader.

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I came to Olympic Park to see the citizens who are shouting in the plaza to restore the right to participate and constitutional order.

The party's internal sentiment towards Jang's actions is largely unfavorable. He is criticized for attempting to overcome calls for his resignation through outdoor politics and for prioritizing rallies over pressing national issues. Many lawmakers are distancing themselves from Jang, avoiding joint appearances in photos during his events.

Despite the widespread dissatisfaction with Jang's leadership, a clear alternative remains elusive. The uncertainty surrounding a "post-Jang Dong-hyuk" leadership structure creates anxiety among lawmakers, who appear to be in a wait-and-see mode. The complex internal calculations regarding who would lead the party if Jang steps down further complicate the situation, especially among the pro-Yoon faction, who fear a potential leadership bid by independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon could weaken their political standing. This stalemate is expected to continue, with no easy exit in sight.

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I believe that being with these angry citizens is how we expand our reach to the center.