Chairperson Kim Yong-tae of the People Power Party has intensified efforts to listen to regional public sentiment, touring the country ahead of the end of his term at the end of this month.
On the 22nd, Chairperson Kim will visit the National Cemetery in Dongjak District, Seoul, to participate in a service activity to clean the graves of Korean War veterans, and later hold a dinner meeting with Incheon Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok at a hotel in Incheon.
During a meeting with reporters that day, Kim noted, "On the 75th anniversary of the Korean War, I came to the cemetery to pledge not to forget the sacrifices of our heroes and to promise responsible politics with young lawmakers."
He continued, "In today's meeting with the mayor of Incheon, I will discuss the direction of the People Power Party concerning Incheon and the wider metropolitan area, as well as innovative solutions related to Incheon city's governance." He added, "We also plan to have an in-depth discussion regarding the reform plan I proposed and Mayor Yoo's innovative vision."
In response to criticisms suggesting he is engaging in 'self-politics,' he emphasized, "Politics requires selfishness, but I will use that selfishness to serve the party and Korea."
Chairperson Kim visited Jeju the previous day for a meeting with local journalists and party officials, stating, "In the spirit of taking responsibility and reflecting on the past, the People Power Party must nullify any party stance against impeachment," reaffirming his intent to promote a poll among party members regarding his proposed 'five reform plans.' He also mentioned that Jeju citizens expressed that "the People Power Party needs to change and reflect."
Chairperson Kim has also announced plans for additional visits to regions such as Ulsan and Daejeon this week. Observers note that this movement appears to be a strategy to gauge public sentiment ahead of the end of his term, with the People Power Party planning to hold a national convention as early as August to select a new party leader.
Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo, who is mentioned as a potential candidate for party leader, is also continuing his outreach efforts, visiting areas including Bundang and Seohyun Station after his trips to Daegu. Former presidential candidate Kim Moon-soo is in a similar situation, meeting with over 30 former lawmakers who helped during the presidential election period to discuss current issues.
According to a survey conducted by Hankil Research at the request of Cookie News from the 14th to the 16th, 1,008 men and women aged 18 and older were asked about the 'most suitable candidate for the next party leader.' Former candidate Kim received 20.3%, and former party leader Han Dong-hoon received 16.3%, a statistical tie. Ahn followed with 9.6%, and Chairperson Kim received 6.1%, with Rep. Na Kyung-won at 5.3%.