South Korea opposition leader Jang Dong-hyeok secured a narrow but decisive victory in the People Power Party leadership election. The second-term lawmaker and former judge defeated Kim Moon-soo in a runoff, gaining 50.27 percent of the vote. Kim won 49.73 percent, but Jang’s stronger support from party members tipped the balance.
The election process combined 80 percent party member ballots and 20 percent public opinion polling. Kim led slightly in the public vote, yet Jang dominated among party members, securing the top post. Both advanced from the earlier convention after no candidate achieved a majority.
In his acceptance speech, Jang called for solidarity among conservatives. He pledged to fight the Lee Jae Myung administration and rebuild the People Power Party into a victorious and reformed force. His rapid rise highlights the shifting dynamics within South Korea’s conservative bloc and strengthens his image as a new South Korean opposition leader.
Jang first entered politics in 2022 after serving as a judge. He gained early influence under party leader Han Dong-hoon, who appointed him to key posts. However, their alliance fractured after lawmakers impeached former President Yoon Suk Yeol over the martial law decree. Jang opposed impeachment, while Han supported it, creating a permanent rift.
That break allowed Jang to build ties with hard-line conservatives. He openly rejected reconciliation with pro-impeachment figures and criticized the Lee administration. His stance gave him credibility with members who demanded a stronger conservative voice.
Earlier this year, Jang supported Kim Moon-soo’s presidential campaign. Yet their partnership faltered after Kim sought broader appeal by softening his position on Yoon’s impeachment. Conservatives saw this as betrayal, which opened the path for Jang’s rise.
Jang also embraced conservative media platforms to amplify his message. He frequently appeared on YouTube programs, including those hosted by commentator Jeon Han-gil, whose endorsement boosted Jang’s profile. By aligning with grassroots voices, he strengthened his hold on the base.
After his win, Jang credited both party members and conservative media for their support. He vowed to organize a counter team to resist ongoing investigations into Yoon, his wife Kim Keon Hee, and the People Power Party. As South Korea’s opposition leader, Jang now positions himself as the face of conservative resistance and a key figure in shaping national politics.
