Han Dong-hoon: 2030 Presidential Run Depends on Public Need

Independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon has left the door open for a potential run in the 2030 presidential election, stating that it depends on whether the public needs him. However, he clarified that deciding on a presidential bid is not something he will determine at this stage.

In an interview with Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun on June 17, Han said, "If the public needs me at that time, I may consider my role, but for now, it is not the time to decide on a presidential run."

Regarding his political moves amid the restructuring of the conservative camp, he reaffirmed his intention to return to the People Power Party (PPP). He stated, "I aim to rejoin the PPP, but there is no need to rush."

Han emphasized his goal of making the conservatives the majority party in the 2028 general elections and regaining power in the 2030 presidential election. He expressed willingness to collaborate with anyone who shares the vision of rebuilding conservatism, adding, "I have no intention of seeking revenge or exclusion during this rebuilding process."

He criticized the current leadership of the PPP, led by Jang Dong-hyuk, who effectively expelled him from the party. Han remarked, "Jang is merely holding the position in name; he has lost political authority and legitimacy," noting that it is rare for a party leader to remain after a significant local election defeat.

When discussing potential alliances with figures like Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and reformist party leader Lee Jun-seok, Han stated that he is open to working with anyone who shares the goal of conservative reconstruction.

Han has also intensified his criticism of the Lee Jae-myung administration, claiming, "The institutions and systems that have supported South Korea are being undermined for the private interests of those in power."

He specifically questioned the upcoming abolition of the prosecution office and the establishment of a public prosecution and serious crimes investigation agency, stating, "If President Lee Jae-myung did not have judicial risks, would these institutional changes be pursued?" He warned that altering long-standing systems for the convenience of those in power is dangerous.

When asked if he would seek to restore the prosecution system in the event of a regime change, he replied, "Rather than restoration, it is a process of normalizing a collapsed system," asserting that the issues within the existing system can be improved through reform and enhancement.