Former South Korean People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon plans to embark on a nationwide tour beginning February 27, aiming to revitalize the conservative political base. The move comes after Han was expelled from the party last month, and signals a potential challenge to the current leadership.
Han will kick off his tour in Daegu, visiting Seomun Market on February 27, where he is expected to deliver a message emphasizing the require to “rebuild the conservative movement,” according to reports. He is then scheduled to travel to Busan and other areas within the Yeongnam region before expanding his outreach across the country.
This “listening tour,” as it’s being described, will be Han’s first extensive travel since a similar series of visits to Gyeongnam in September and Gyeonggi Province in October of last year – a gap of roughly four months. He recently posted on his political platform, “Han Cut,” stating, “We must continue the listening tour!”
The planned tour follows a period of internal strife within the People Power Party, particularly after the recent press conference by party leader Jang Dong-hyuk, who distanced himself from former President Yoon Suk-yeol. Han has been critical of the current party leadership, accusing them of embracing “extremism.”
“Accountability, ‘Yoon Again’ – such radical groups are trying to become the central force. This is a very dangerous regression,” Han said on February 8, referencing the current party direction.
A source close to Han told SBS that the former party leader intends to convey a message that the conservative movement must overcome the challenges facing it, including the recent legal issues surrounding former President Yoon Suk-yeol, who was sentenced to life in prison. The case highlights the deep divisions within South Korean politics and the ongoing struggle for the future of the conservative movement.
Meanwhile, People Power Party member and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon held a book concert on February 22, using the opportunity to criticize Jang’s leadership. The party has also postponed discussions regarding a potential name change until after the upcoming local elections.
