People Power Party Reformists Say Jang Donghyuk's Reform Plan Should Have Included a Break with Yoon

"Party Needs Reconstruction, but Only Internal Makeover Proposed"
Some Voices Actively Welcome Declaration of Change

The "Alternative and Future" group, a reform-oriented assembly of lawmakers within the People Power Party, on January 7 dismissed the reform plan presented by leader Jang Donghyuk as merely "an internal 'interior' level," downplaying its significance. The group criticized the plan as a half-hearted measure, pointing out that it failed to clearly declare a break from former President Yoon Sukyeol.

Twenty-five People Power Party lawmakers affiliated with Alternative and Future issued a statement that afternoon, saying, "The People Power Party needs innovation on the scale of a complete reconstruction, but Jang's reform plan remains at the level of an internal 'interior' makeover." Earlier that morning, Jang held a press conference at the party headquarters in Yeouido, where he offered a public apology for the December 3 Martial Law Incident. He also announced plans to redefine the party's direction by broadening its appeal and to pursue a change in the party's name.

Jang Donghyuk, leader of the People Power Party, is announcing the party reform plan at an emergency press conference held at the central party office in Yeouido, Seoul, on January 7, 2026. Photo by Kim Hyunmin

The group acknowledged, "There are certainly positive aspects in Jang's statement, such as breaking away from past mistakes, self-reflection, and transitioning to a party centered on policy and youth," but added, "We are deeply disappointed."

They repeatedly urged Jang to publicly declare his intention to sever ties with former President Yoon Sukyeol, supporters of martial law, and proponents of election fraud conspiracy theories. "The prerequisites for genuine change and reform, as demanded by the public, are clear," they said. "Today's message should have included a clear stance on these issues."

Regarding Jang's comment that "past events should be left to the judgment of the judiciary and the evaluation of history," the group criticized this as "an irresponsible attitude," arguing, "Such ambiguity is no different from turning away out of fear of crossing a river."

They also called on Jang to present concrete measures for party unity and for strengthening alliances within the conservative camp. "There is no visible, concrete solution for how to resolve internal conflicts and lead the party toward harmony," they said, urging him to "clearly establish the values and vision that will guide the party forward."

In contrast, some in the political sphere welcomed Jang Donghyuk's reform plan. Seoul Mayor Oh Sehoon said, "I wholeheartedly welcome the party leader's declaration to decisively break with the wrongs of the past and initiate changes that meet public expectations. I believe the public will agree with this decision, which reflects the urgent calls for change from citizens and supporters."

Busan Mayor Park Hyungjoon stated, "This is exactly what all party members and citizens who wish to uphold conservative values and move toward the future through unity and innovation want," adding, "I applaud Jang's thoughtful decision." Woo Jaejun, a People Power Party lawmaker, also commented, "I support Jang's step forward and hope that everyone will continue to move in the right direction together."

Former leader Han Donghoon, speaking on the E-Today TV YouTube channel, said, "It is certainly right that we must overcome martial law, but what matters is whether it is actually put into practice." He also emphasized, "It is necessary to break ties with former President Yoon, and unless that is properly accomplished, we cannot move on to the next page."