Former Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo Suggests Possibility of Political Comeback

After losing the presidential candidate nomination in the People Power Party and announcing his retirement from politics, former Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo hinted at the possibility of returning to the political arena.

On the 30th of last month, Hong stated on his Facebook, "Even if we dislike politics and even if politics is utterly detestable, we cannot live without engaging in it."

Hong began his remarks by quoting the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, saying, "If we ignore politics, we will be ruled by the most despicable of men," while reflecting on the saying by Plato or Winston Churchill in the morning during the rainy season.

He critically diagnosed the current political situation by stating, "Now, Korean society has become a world where the most despicable politicians mislead the public."

Earlier, just after losing the candidacy on April 29, Hong declared his retirement from politics and left the People Power Party, which he had been a part of for 30 years.

After leaving for Hawaii, where he stayed for about a month and a half, he returned on the 17th of last month. Since then, he has been advocating the need for a restructuring of conservative political forces through his online communication platform, "Dream of Youth," hinting at a potential political comeback.

In particular, on the 25th of the same month, he left a meaningful comment on a post made by a supporter on "Dream of Youth," saying, "I go where time leads me, following the natural order. I am not hasty and will wait until the world summons me again."

Moreover, on the 28th of the same month, he stated on Facebook, "There have been five presidents who were investigated and punished after their terms ended. All of them were representatives of the conservative camp. Yet, can the Korean conservative camp regain the trust of the people without a revolutionary reform?" offering pointed criticism towards the entire conservative camp.

In the political realm, observers interpret Hong's statements as a strategic move towards a political return. His continuous mentions of the need for restructuring within the conservative political landscape and his increasing vocalization on political issues are being seen as signals to re-engage in his political career.

Image source: Former Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo / News1