SEOUL — Former leader Han Dong-hoon and two influential members of the People Power Party (PPP) are set to announce their bids for the party leadership this Sunday, setting the stage for a pivotal race that could reshape the party's relationship with President Yoon Suk Yeol.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Han Dong-hoon will announce his candidacy at a news conference at the National Assembly at 2 p.m. This follows Rep. Na Kyung-won, a five-term lawmaker, who plans her announcement at 1 p.m., and former Land Minister Won Hee-ryong, who will declare his candidacy at 3 p.m. The party is gearing up for a national convention on July 23 to elect a new leader following a significant defeat in April's parliamentary elections. Although Han resigned as emergency committee leader post-election, he is now re-entering the political fray, indicating a critical shift in his career and potentially, the party's direction.
The upcoming election, which also includes Rep. Yoon Sang-hyun, another seasoned lawmaker, is expected to draw significant attention. Political analysts are particularly focused on Han, previously a close confidant of President Yoon. Their relationship has reportedly deteriorated due to various politically sensitive issues, influencing Han's approach and campaign strategies for this leadership race.