Choo Kyung-ho: "No Major Disagreements with Han Dong-hoon... None Expected in the Future"

"Ask the party leader's opinion and operate harmoniously, that's my way"
"Communicating more than anyone close"
Han Dong-hoon on by-election candidacy "It's too early to talk now"

On the 13th, Choo Kyung-ho, floor leader of the People Power Party, dismissed rumors of discord with Representative Han Dong-hoon.

At the Kwanhun Club invitation debate on the same day, Floor Leader Choo said, "Some people make it seem like there are major disagreements between me and Representative Han, but there are no significant differences." He added, "I communicate with Representative Han more than any other lawmaker, even more than those who are commonly called close friends. We communicate and discuss a lot both in visible and behind-the-scenes settings, setting directions and consulting with each other."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Regarding differences in opinion, he said, "At certain points, there may be a lack of mutual understanding," but added, "Once that point passes, we talk and set directions together." He continued, "There are no disagreements between Han Dong-hoon and Choo Kyung-ho," and stated, "There will be none in the future either. If there are, we will coordinate well."

Regarding the dual structure of party leader and floor leader, he said, "The floor leader holds the highest authority and responsibility for managing the National Assembly operations and floor situation, and the highest decision-making body is the party caucus," but added, "Above that is the party leader, who represents the entire party." He further explained, "The floor leader is primarily responsible for the floor situation and communicates with lawmakers to exercise primary responsibility and authority over managing National Assembly issues, but telling the floor leader 'Do not express opinions' or 'Do not interfere' in party operations is how an organization collapses." He continued, "Even matters that can be decided based on the party caucus should be explained to the party leader, understanding sought, and the party leader's opinion asked so that the party can proceed harmoniously. That is my way of operating."

Regarding Representative Han's potential candidacy in a by-election, he said, "Talking about it now seems too early," and added, "We need to judge by observing the political situation." He continued, "Even if he wants to enter the floor and run as a candidate, it does not depend solely on his will," and said, "There are various procedures for recommending by-election candidates within the party, and the political situation is judged accordingly. It is not appropriate to speculate in advance about which prominent candidate will run where from an election strategy perspective."