PPP Resolves to Oppose 'Yoon Again'... Key Issue Is Follow-Up Actions

Criticism of Mere Formality
Han: "Must Include Opposition to Martial Law and Election Fraud Theories"

The People Power Party has officially declared, in the name of all its National Assembly members, its opposition to the political return of former President Yoon Suk-yeol. With about 80 days remaining until the June 3 local elections, a sense of crisis has spread within the party that "the election cannot be held as things stand," prompting a shift in the party's internal dynamics. However, some have pointed out that corresponding follow-up actions from party leadership are also necessary.

At a party countermeasures meeting held on the morning of March 10, floor leader Song Eon-seok stated, "The People Power Party will now leave the past behind and move toward the future," and urged, "Let us unite all citizens as one so that we can win the election and keep the Lee Jaemyung administration's unchecked rule in check."

Jang Donghyuk, leader of the People Power Party, along with other lawmakers, is saluting the national flag at the party meeting held at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul on March 9, 2026. Photo by Hyunmin Kim

At the members' meeting the previous day, the party made clear its opposition to the December 3 Martial Law and to calls for former President Yoon’s political return, signaling an intention to shift to election mode. Oh Sehoon, the mayor of Seoul, who did not apply for party nomination, also commented, "A meaningful change has begun."

However, hardline supporters are pushing back against the move. Party leader Jang Donghyuk, seemingly aware of this, only remarked regarding the resolution, "I respect the collective will of the lawmakers." Supreme Council member Cho Gwanghan said, "Chairman Jang is deeply troubled," adding, "We cannot ignore the wounds and wishes of our party members."

Some have criticized the resolution as merely a formality. In fact, the resolution does not include concrete details such as an explicit severance from Yoon ("Jeol-yoon"). Chairman Jang remained silent throughout the meeting. Former party leader Han Donghoon appeared on KBS that day and said, "We must clearly oppose the defense of martial law, objection to impeachment, and conspiracy theories about election fraud."

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