Hong Jun-pyo's Official Reinstatement Declaration... Party Members Say "Not the Right Time" (Comprehensive)

Bypass Plan Officially Announced

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Hong Joon-pyo, Independent Member of Parliament / Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunju Lee] On the 10th, independent lawmaker Hong Jun-pyo officially announced his intention to rejoin the People Power Party. Although he had indirectly expressed his desire to return several times after being elected in last year's local elections, this is the first time he has directly mentioned his intention to rejoin. Hong left the party in dissatisfaction after being excluded from the nomination ahead of the local elections.

At a press conference held at the National Assembly on the same day, Hong said, "The past year spent outside has been a time of deep reflection on my political journey and shortcomings," adding, "I intend to follow the reinstatement procedures by submitting a rejoining application and undergoing review according to the party's constitution and regulations."

He continued, "I want to return to the party, faithfully fulfill my responsibilities and duties as a party member, help restore the broken state administration, and become a grain of wheat for national normalization," emphasizing his commitment.

However, difficulties are expected until the reinstatement decision is made. Some first-term lawmakers view Hong's return as unhelpful to the party reform efforts underway following the resignation of former emergency committee chairman Kim Jong-in and the April 7 by-elections. A first-term lawmaker said in a phone interview, "In expanding the moderate base, we cannot welcome the return of Hong, who has a strong conservative image," adding, "There is concern that it may be perceived as a return to a conservative party, as the phrase 'back to the Korean Party' suggests."

The party leadership also believes that now is not the right time. While they keep the possibility of reinstatement open due to the need to absorb the support rate of Hong, who is at the level of a presidential candidate, they may continue to postpone the timing citing the need for opinion gathering. As several polls show a high approval rate for Hong's reinstatement among People Power Party supporters, some voices express concern that Hong might exert influence at the party convention.