Yoon Seok-yeol to Announce Presidential Bid on 27th... Joins Party After Public Sentiment Tour

Nationwide 'Minshim Tour' Listening Sessions
People Power Party Membership Seems Practically Confirmed

Former Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-yeol [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Hyun-joo] Former Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-yeol will declare his presidential bid on the 27th of this month. Afterward, he will embark on a "public sentiment tour" across the country. His intention to join the People Power Party will be announced after that.

Lee Dong-hoon, spokesperson for Yoon's campaign, appeared on the radio on the 18th and stated that when Yoon declares his presidential bid, he will assess the current situation of the Republic of Korea, explain why he is entering politics, and what kind of Korea he aims to build. The spokesperson said, "While revealing his vision, he will also take time to listen carefully."

After announcing his political participation, Yoon will begin the public sentiment tour. He plans to travel nationwide to hear various voices from the field. Through the spokesperson, Yoon said, "I am not just going around markets eating odeng (fish cake)," adding, "I will meet influential people and listen to diverse opinions."

After the one to two-week public sentiment tour, Yoon plans to announce his intention to join the People Power Party. The timing is expected to be around mid to late July. Previously, Yoon had been considering multiple options, including joining the People Power Party, founding a third-party platform, or joining the People’s Party led by Ahn Cheol-soo.

However, it appears that he has effectively decided to join the People Power Party. The spokesperson said on the radio, "Some people suggest that the focus should be on the third-party platform or the People’s Party, but Yoon believes that the conservative center, the People Power Party, should be the core." When the host asked, "Can we take it for granted that he will join the People Power Party?" he replied, "Yes, I think you can." However, after this statement was reported, Yoon, through the spokesperson, clarified, "Regarding joining the People Power Party, I will act cautiously and deliberately like Mount Taesan, not rashly."