Han Donghoon Invokes 'YS Spirit': "Committed to Good Politics... Trusting the People"

Attends Kim Youngsam Documentary Premiere on the 28th
First Public Appearance Since People Power Party Expulsion Recommendation

Former People Power Party leader Han Donghoon has resumed public activities by attending the premiere of a documentary about former President Kim Youngsam. This marks his first official appearance since the party’s Central Ethics Committee recommended his expulsion on January 14. Amidst his weakened standing within the party, his move is interpreted as an effort to highlight the legitimacy of conservative values and assert his political presence.

On the afternoon of the 28th, Han attended the premiere of "The Forgotten President: Kim Youngsam's Era of Reform" at CGV Times Square in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul. At the event, he spoke about the political legacy of former President Kim Youngsam, emphasizing the conservative values that carry on the "YS spirit."

Arriving at the venue around 12:30 p.m., Han greeted supporters before entering the theater, where he watched the documentary for about 80 minutes. Just before the screening, he exchanged greetings with Kim Hyuncheol, Chairman of the Kim Youngsam Presidential Memorial Foundation and son of the late president. After the screening, Han briefly shared his thoughts.

Han stated, "I have a strong sense of duty to pursue good politics for the people," adding, "Even after being unjustly expelled, I will continue forward with unwavering determination, trusting the people, just as President Kim Youngsam once said, 'Even if you twist the chicken's neck, the dawn will come.'"

Chairman Kim, who hosted the premiere, commented, "The essence of politics is unity and harmony," and added, "Some believe the opposition is becoming too divided, but I hope People Power Party will also practice the politics of addition," expressing his support for Han.

Former People Power Party leader Han Donghoon is moving to the screening room at a movie theater in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, on the 28th to watch "The Forgotten President: Kim Youngsam's Era of Reform." 2026.1.28 Photo by Kim Hyunmin

On this day, Han refrained from directly addressing his party discipline and personal status. Instead, he referenced the case of former President Kim Youngsam, who also faced unjust expulsion in the past, drawing a parallel to his own situation.

Political observers suggest that Han’s emphasis on the "YS spirit" is intended to reframe his party disciplinary situation, not merely as internal strife, but as part of a broader debate over the direction of reform for the conservative party. On January 9, during a lecture at the Dongdaemun district party chapter in Seoul, Han declared, "Only when we inherit the 'YS spirit' can we claim the legitimacy and justification of being the force that ended military dictatorship and achieved democratization," defining himself as a "true conservative."

On January 26, Han strongly criticized the party leadership’s disciplinary action against former Supreme Council member Kim Jonghyuk, who is considered an ally, using terms such as "Nazism" and "North Korean leader theory." By challenging the party's disciplinary stance, Han further escalated internal tensions.

Within the party, there are mixed opinions regarding Han's expulsion. A group of reform-minded lawmakers in the National Assembly is urging the leadership to reconsider the expulsion in the name of party unity. However, among those close to the leadership, there is speculation that the expulsion will be finalized on the 29th, when party leader Jang returns to work.

The party leadership also remains firm. On January 27, Supreme Council member Kim Jaewon said on YTN Radio, "The Ethics Committee’s decision to expel has already been made," adding, "All that remains is for the Supreme Council to approve the Ethics Committee’s decision." He further stated, "We should not postpone disciplinary action, and resolving this quickly will help minimize confusion."