Every Facebook Post Draws Intense Media Attention
Daily Schedule Involves Grueling 500?600 km Journeys
Resolving Key Issues, Including Securing National AI Computing Center for Haenam
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Revival of Honam Political Bloc Emerges
The words and writings of Jiwon Park, Member of the Democratic Party of Korea and the oldest sitting lawmaker in the country, representing Haenam, Wando, and Jindo counties, have been drawing public attention day after day. Whenever major issues arise, Park’s signature sharp and witty remarks have quenched the public’s thirst for candid commentary. Despite his advanced age, rumors have recently circulated that he may run for Speaker of the National Assembly, showing that his political journey is far from over.
On October 24, Park posted a rather provocative statement on his Facebook account, beginning with, "Myung Taegyun is always right, and Mayor Oh Sehoon always lies." Although this was his personal opinion regarding the investigation into the "Myung Taegyun Gate" scandal, which was a hot topic during the recent Seoul City audit, the post drew nationwide attention and sparked various political interpretations.
Such is the weight of Park’s offhand remarks. His comments and writings directed at figures such as the couple Yoon Sukyeol and Kim Keonhee, who were detained due to incidents like the declaration of martial law, as well as their close associates, are frequently cited by the media. Major broadcasters and large YouTube channels are eager to feature Park, considering him a guaranteed ratings booster.
Even though Park is a veteran politician well over 80 years old (born in 1942), he remains approachable, witty, and incisive. No one seems to match his ability to read the domestic political landscape. This is the result of his experience overcoming countless hardships alongside the late former President Kim Daejung, combined with his own political convictions and principles.
Because of this background, Park has earned numerous nicknames such as "the 9th-dan of politics" and "the sly fox," and is regarded as a seasoned operator in political circles. The fact that former Daegu Mayor Hong Joonpyo-both a political partner and rival-has acknowledged Park as the only politician he respects further underscores this reputation.
Although he is at an age when most would have long since retired, Park’s passion remains undiminished. According to his recent social media posts, his daily schedule involves arriving in Haenam from Seoul at 2 a.m., sleeping only a few hours, and then visiting Gwangju, Wando, and Haenam in succession-a grueling journey of roughly 500 to 600 kilometers. This demanding routine is repeated almost daily.
He is also proactive in addressing local issues. Recently, Park worked tirelessly to secure Haenam as the site for a national AI computing center project worth 2.5 trillion won, which had caused serious conflict with Gwangju. He also pushed forward water supply projects in Wando, Bogil, and Nowha (worth 69 billion won), and helped secure 30 billion won for the Jindo-Hoedong tourism complex. By doing so, he has fulfilled the necessary and sufficient conditions to maintain the trust of local residents, who gave him 92.35% support in the April 10 general election.
Many see Park’s renewed vigor as a sign of the "revival of Honam politics." The upcoming election for the 22nd Speaker of the National Assembly is expected to serve as a litmus test for this prediction.
Within the local political scene, it is anticipated that Park will compete for the speakership with fellow Democratic Party lawmakers Cho Jungshik (Siheung-eul, Gyeonggi Province, six-term) and Kim Taenyeon (Sujeong-gu, Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, five-term).
This contest will not only test Park’s standing within the party but also the cohesion and influence of the Honam political bloc. The stakes are high; a loss in the election could force Park to consider political retirement.
It is reported that Park and his inner circle are deeply contemplating these risks. For this reason, every decision Park makes is expected to leave a lasting mark on the political history of South Korea.
A local political figure commented, "Jiwon Park is a respected elder in Korean politics. The world has changed a lot, and so has the political landscape. Yet, Park has adapted faster than anyone and continues to pioneer new politics. There is talk that he may run for Speaker of the National Assembly, and his passion remains undiminished. I believe his challenge will mark a new starting point for Honam politics."
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