Independent Lawmaker Han Dong-hoon Joins Pro-Yoon Forum, Sparking Speculation of Rejoining PPP

Independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon has joined the "Future Innovation Forum of the Republic of Korea," a parliamentary research group primarily composed of former pro-Yoon (pro-President Yoon Suk Yeol) lawmakers.

According to political circles on June 17, Han joined the Future Innovation Forum, led by Representative Kim Gi-hyeon of the People Power Party (PPP), yesterday.

The forum had reached out to newly elected lawmakers to gauge their interest in joining, and Han was granted full membership after expressing his intent to participate.

A representative for Han stated, "I understand that Han joined the forum with pleasure after receiving an invitation from Representative Kim Gi-hyeon's office."

The group consists of about 30 lawmakers, most of whom are members of the PPP, including Representative Kim and many pro-Yoon figures.

However, some observers note that the group's political color has become less distinct as participation from other factions, including those aligned with Han, has increased.

In political circles, Han's decision to join the group has sparked speculation that he is signaling his intent to rejoin the PPP.

Han, who was expelled from the PPP in January, has repeatedly expressed his desire to return to the party since winning the by-election in Busan's Buk-gu Gap district.

Meanwhile, attention is focused on whether Han, now a member of the Future Innovation Forum, and existing member Lee Jun-seok, leader of the New Reform Party, will attend a lecture by Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon hosted by the forum on June 24.

If all three attend, it would bring together prominent conservative figures who are currently at odds with the party leadership, including PPP leader Jang Dong-hyuk.

However, it appears the meeting will not take place, as Han is reportedly scheduled to attend events in his Busan constituency that day.

On this day, Han also expanded his reach within the political sphere by attending consecutive events hosted by the offices of lawmakers Kim Ye-ji, Bae Jun-young, and Kim Geon.

In the process, he once again took a critical stance against leader Jang.

When asked by reporters at the National Assembly Members' Office Building about his position on Jang's leadership and calls for a re-election, Han remarked, "It is not good politics to incite sentiment for the survival of a specific political faction and to jump on that bandwagon without a clear plan."

Reported by Kim Jiuk | Video by Kim Hye-ju | Graphics by Lee Jeong-ju | Produced by SBS Digital News
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.