Kwak Kyutaek: "Han Donghoon Should Be Reinstated to Unify Conservatives in Busan Buk-gap"

Kwak Gyutaek, a lawmaker representing Busan and Senior Spokesperson for the People Power Party in the National Assembly, has argued for the reinstatement of former party leader Han Donghoon, who was expelled from the party.

On April 15, Kwak appeared on Channel A's "Kim Jin's Straight Talk Show" and stated, "Now is the time for former leader Han to be reinstated," adding, "Han's candidacy in the upcoming Busan by-election would greatly benefit the People Power Party's mayoral race in Busan."

He continued, "It is most desirable for the candidates currently running in Buk-gap, Busan, to unite behind a single People Power Party candidate," stressing, "Senior lawmakers must persuade the party leader and the leadership team."

Kwak Gyutaek, Senior Spokesperson for the People Power Party in the National Assembly. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

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The background behind such remarks from Kwak, who serves as both Senior Spokesperson and an ex officio member of the party's Nomination Committee, lies in the complex political landscape of Buk-gap, Busan. With former leader Han recently announcing his intention to run in the by-election for this district, there are concerns that if the People Power Party fields a separate candidate, a three-way race could emerge, potentially favoring the Democratic Party of Korea candidate.

Kwak emphasized, "Han's announcement has brought national political attention to Busan," and added, "Busan should become the focal point for conservative unification in this election."

He further stated, "Since former leader Han has consistently spoken about reinstatement, now is the time for the party to take a bold step in this crucial election," and urged, "The leadership should take the initiative in facilitating his return and demonstrate a broader vision for politics."

The previous day, former leader Han officially declared his candidacy for the by-election by registering his residence in Buk-gu-gap, Busan. Some within the party argue that to prevent vote-splitting, the People Power Party should refrain from nominating a candidate in this district.

Kim Doeup, a senior lawmaker from Busan, suggested the necessity of not fielding a candidate in Buk-gap, saying, "If both former leader Han and the People Power Party nominate candidates, it could create a difficult situation and may also impact the mayoral election in Busan."

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