SEOUL – Former leader of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), Han Dong-hoon, has turned down a luncheon meeting proposed by President Yoon Suk Yeol, citing health issues as the reason for his inability to attend.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the invitation for the luncheon, which was to occur on Monday, was extended by the presidential chief of staff last Friday. “I received a call from the presidential chief of staff Friday afternoon, asking if a luncheon would be possible on Monday, and I politely told him it would be difficult for the moment due to health reasons,” Han explained. This decision came about 10 days after Han resigned from his position as leader of the PPP’s emergency committee, following the party’s significant loss in the April 10 parliamentary elections.
The presidential office had also communicated the proposal through Representative Yun Jae-ok, the PPP’s floor leader and acting chairman. However, they decided against holding the luncheon without Han's participation. This backdrop is significant as Yoon and Han had previously clashed over several politically sensitive issues during the elections, including the controversial appointment of the resigned ambassador to Australia, Lee Jong-sup.
Han’s resignation followed internal party tensions and public criticisms, notably involving Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo, who accused Han of betraying President Yoon. The accusations referenced disputes surrounding first lady Kim Keon Hee's acceptance of a luxury handbag among other controversies. In his first public comment since his resignation, Han emphasized his commitment to the public in a Facebook post, stating, "I will never betray the people no matter what happens. The only thing politicians should never betray is you, the people. Efforts to correct what is wrong are not betrayal, but courage."
He further addressed his supporters, reflecting on the election outcome and his future in politics, “The election defeat is my loss, not your loss. I owe you a debt. I am sorry.” Han also expressed his intent to continue his political career, hinting at a period of introspection and study to prepare for future leadership roles, though he suggested he might not run for party leader in the forthcoming PPP national convention.