Jang Donghyuk: "'We Are Hwang Kyoahn' Was a Strategic Remark... Internal Disagreements Don't Help the Party"

Remarks Made at Closed-Door Party Caucus on November 13

Jang Donghyuk, leader of the People Power Party, reportedly explained that his statement, "We are Hwang Kyoahn," made at a rally condemning the prosecution's decision to drop the appeal in the Daejang-dong development corruption case, was not an impromptu remark but a planned one.

It is said that Jang made this point during a closed-door party caucus held at the National Assembly on November 13, 2025. Jang told lawmakers, "I am aware of the concerns regarding my 'We are Hwang Kyoahn' comment. However, I do not make such remarks impulsively," adding, "I make these statements strategically, based on data and the situation."

Jang Donghyuk, leader of the People Power Party, is speaking at the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly on November 13, 2025. Photo by Kim Hyunmin

Jang also referred to the criticism within the party when he visited former President Yoon Sukyeol, saying, "I know there were many concerns at that time as well. But looking back now, the approval rating did not drop in the long run," and explained, "So instead of just going on TV and criticizing, please keep this in mind."

He went on to say, "The Democratic Party, even while committing outrageous acts such as dropping the appeal, still speaks with one voice. If we openly express disagreements over issues like this, will it really help the party?" according to those present at the caucus.

Choi Eunseok, Chief Spokesperson for the People Power Party, met with reporters after the caucus and explained, "I hope people understand that Jang's statement was meant to convey that the special prosecutor's outrageous oppression and investigation could happen to anyone in the country."

Choi further added, "The point was that any one of our citizens, any one of our lawmakers, could become a target of an outrageous special prosecutor investigation. The intention was to raise awareness among the public about the seriousness of the issue and to urge everyone to stand up against the special prosecutor's excessive investigation. There was no other particular meaning."