Park Minsik of Opposition: "Zero Possibility of Unification with Han Donghoon... Confident of Victory"

Minshik Park, the former Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs who has been confirmed as the People Power Party candidate for the Busan Bukgap National Assembly by-election, drew a clear line on May 5 regarding the possibility of unifying with Han Donghoon, the former People Power Party leader running as an independent, stating that it is "zero."

At a press conference held at the party's central headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul, Park said, "As I have stated several times, the possibility of unification is zero. Close associates of former leader Han talk about unification, no nomination, and alliances, but such political calculations are not appropriate," adding, "Whether it is a two-way or three-way race, I am confident of victory."

Minshik Park, People Power Party Candidate for the Busan Bukgap By-election. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

Park emphasized that this election is "not simply a contest for a single parliamentary seat," but rather "an election to revive the Gupo Market business district, transform the transportation and housing in Mandeok and Deokcheon, and design the next 100 years for Buk-gu." He continued, "If this place falls, Busan will be shaken, but if we regain it, Busan will rise again. Victory in Busan Bukgap will mark the beginning of a conservative revival."

Regarding pro-Han lawmakers within the party supporting former leader Han, he said, "If we consider the basic principles of party politics, I believe the people will make a stern judgment on the actions of such individuals."

On the controversy surrounding Democratic Party candidate Ha Jungwoo's 'shaking hands and wiping hands' incident, Park commented, "It is not the mistake of a political novice, but rather an expression of an elitist mindset deeply rooted within him," adding, "It raises questions as to whether he thinks Gupo Market merchants are people he would rather not associate with and that he only shakes hands with them because he has to during the election."

When asked whether he plans to request campaign support from Representative Jang Donghyuk, Park replied, "I firmly believe he will come," and added, "I intend to ask for support regardless of position or rank."

Meanwhile, the People Power Party's nomination committee officially confirmed Park as the final candidate on this day.

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