[AK Radio] Han Dong-hoon’s Return: A Gale or a Breeze?

Symbolism of Martial Law Lifting and Potential for Moderate Expansion as Strengths
Lack of Experience, Weakened Base, and Prosecutor Image as Weaknesses
Attention on Potential Cooperation with Former Lawmaker Yoo Seung-min

On the 26th, ahead of the release of former People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon's book "The People Come First," the fan cafe "With Hoonie," which has about 91,000 members, heated up. The cafe bulletin board is ablaze with posts encouraging pre-orders of the book and promoting recommendations for school libraries. The book is said to contain the situation before and after the martial law, Han's state of mind at the time, his experiences as emergency response committee chairman and party leader, and conversations with President Yoon Seok-yeol.

Is Han's return a whirlwind or a mild breeze? The so-called "pro-Han faction" highlights Han's role during the martial law impeachment phase and expresses expectations that he will show a different tone from the current rightward shift of the People Power Party. Lawmaker Cho Kyung-tae expressed hope for Han, saying, "The People Power Party's presidential candidate inevitably comes from those who supported the impeachment."

Han is also reportedly in the process of forming a campaign team. The group called "Under 73" includes lawmakers Kim Sang-wook, Jin Jong-oh, and about ten district committee chairpersons. A confidential working group is also said to be active.

Han's side emphasizes three strengths. First, the symbolism shown during the lifting of martial law and the impeachment support process. Second, being free from the so-called "Myeong Taegyun Gate." Third, the potential to expand into the moderate voter base.

On the other hand, some predict that it will be difficult for Han to create a whirlwind due to his prosecutor image, relationship with President Yoon Seok-yeol, lack of political experience, and weakened support base within the party. It is also pointed out that the 18 lawmakers who were together during the lifting of martial law have split, weakening the parliamentary faction.

A noteworthy aspect is Han's relationship with former lawmaker Yoo Seung-min. Yoo recently said, "I can cooperate with former leader Han Dong-hoon," leaving the possibility open. If the two join forces, it could significantly influence the primary race within the People Power Party.

However, Han's path ahead is expected to be far from smooth. Currently, the party's core support is dominated by a hardline group centered on the "pro-Yoon faction," placing Han, who is considered "non-pro-Yoon," at a disadvantage in the presidential primary. Especially, what political stance Han will take is crucial. Attention is focused on whether he will strongly pursue the anti-martial law and pro-impeachment line or take a moderate approach mindful of party sentiment.

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The "pro-Yoon faction" shows a cold view of Han. Lawyer Shin Pyung criticized, "He will wander as a presidential candidate ronin, waiting for a lucky break all his life," and lawmaker Yoon Sang-hyun pointed out, "Now is not Han Dong-hoon's time but Yoon Seok-yeol's time."

Ultimately, the challenge Han must overcome is clear. Amid strong anti-Han flows within the party and a rightward trend, he needs to firmly establish his message and stance.

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