"Hong Junpyo Expresses Support for Kim Moonsu's Victory"
Representative Yoo Sangbeom of the People Power Party, who met with former Daegu Mayor Hong Junpyo, currently staying in Hawaii, stated, "Former Mayor Hong made it very clear that 'there is absolutely no chance of joining hands with the Democratic Party.'"
At the People Power Party headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul, last April, after candidate Hong Junpyo was eliminated at the announcement event for the third round of the People Power Party's 21st presidential candidate primary, he is seen leaving the headquarters. Photo by the National Assembly Press Photographers Group
On CBS Radio's "Kim Hyunjung's News Show" on May 20, Representative Yoo said, "During our conversation, former Mayor Hong clearly stated, 'I support candidate Kim Moonsu and wish for Kim Moonsu's victory.' I believe he can play a role in securing Kim's victory in some form."
Representative Yoo visited Hawaii as part of a special delegation, along with Representative Kim Daesik, to persuade former Mayor Hong to join the election campaign committee for Kim Moonsu, the People Power Party's presidential candidate. Representative Yoo previously served as the head of general operations for Hong's presidential primary campaign, while Representative Kim served as chief secretary for the candidate.
Representative Yoo stated, "We met at a restaurant and had an in-depth conversation with former Mayor Hong for about four hours. I conveyed that if he returns, we will leave all decisions and roles entirely up to him, and simply ask for his support. Former Mayor Hong accepted this message with great consideration."
Representative Yoo added, "If he decides to join, we expect him to play an important role in rallying the traditional support base. Former Mayor Hong has served as a symbol of conservatism and has also built a partial fandom among the younger generation, so if he takes on a role, he could make a significant contribution to changing the support base."
Regarding the recent rumors from the Democratic Party about recruiting Hong Junpyo and offering him the position of Prime Minister?rumors that spread after Hong posted a photo of himself wearing a blue tie on his social media?Representative Yoo explained that it was simply a misunderstanding. He said, "Former Mayor Hong did not realize this would become an issue. He did not anticipate the situation where he would be swept up in rumors of recruitment or being proposed as Prime Minister."
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