Pro-Pro Moon Alliance, Becoming the Focal Point of 'Anti-Lee Jae-myung'?

'Pro-Moon Core' Im Jong-seok... For Now, Plans to Accept Party Decision
Following 'Seol Hoon's Departure,' Hong Young-pyo to Decide Position This Week
Lee Nak-yeon... Press Conference for Gwangju Candidacy This Afternoon

Amid the Democratic Party's 'nomination turmoil' causing a continuous decline in party approval ratings, there are speculations that the pro-Moon faction may join hands with Saeroun Mirae. If those claiming the Democratic Party's legitimacy form the so-called 'Pro-Moon Coalition,' they could emerge as a rallying point for the 'anti-Myeong (anti-Lee Jae-myung)' forces.

Former Blue House Chief of Staff Lim Jong-seok, whose potential departure from the party was in focus, stated on the morning of the 4th via his Facebook, "I accept the party's decision."

Former Presidential Chief of Staff Im Jong-seok held a press conference at the National Assembly Communication Office on the 28th, expressing his position on the Democratic Party's decision to exclude him from the primary (cutoff). Photo by Kim Hyun-min kimhyun81@

Although he did not clearly state his future course, various interpretations have emerged inside and outside the party. Regarding the 'acceptance' message, most view it as meaning he will not leave the party immediately, but some believe there remains a possibility that he will join the collective action of the pro-Moon faction protesting the nomination issue. A representative from Lim’s side told Asia Economy in a phone call, "For now, please interpret the statement exactly as it is," refraining from further comment.

Other pro-Moon members have already begun to act. Five-term lawmaker Seol Hoon announced his departure from the Democratic Party and plans to run as an independent in his current constituency (Gyeonggi Bucheon-si Eul). He also mentioned ongoing discussions about future moves with the pro-Moon faction under the banner of the 'Democratic Alliance.' Hong Young-pyo, regarded as the 'leader of the pro-Moon faction,' also hinted at leaving the party after being excluded from the nominations. He is expected to declare his position as early as this week.

Lee Nak-yeon, co-representative of Saeroun Mirae, is entering the National Assembly on the 27th for a press conference announcing talent recruitment. Photo by Kim Hyun-min kimhyun81@

The pro-Moon faction, sidelined in the nomination turmoil, is expected to form the so-called 'Pro-Moon Coalition' similar to the past Pro-Park Alliance and then join forces with Saeroun Mirae. Co-representative Lee Nak-yeon has shown the most active moves, meeting with former Chief of Staff Lim and communicating with lawmakers Seol Hoon and Hong Young-pyo. From Saeroun Mirae’s perspective, which has experienced ups and downs through integration and splits with the Reform New Party, an alliance with the existing Democratic Party forces is crucial.

Meanwhile, Lee Nak-yeon, co-representative of Saeroun Mirae, is scheduled to hold a press conference at around 3 p.m. at the Gwangju City Council to announce his candidacy for Gwangju.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.