On August 20, the People Power Party initiated disciplinary actions against four non-affiliated members, prompting a backlash from independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon. He criticized the party's leader, Jang Dong-hyuk, claiming the actions aimed to consolidate power within the party.
In a Facebook post, Han stated, "The selective and arbitrary disciplinary actions aimed at turning a public party into a private one will continue." He warned that the party would be abandoned by the public.
Earlier that day, the party's Central Ethics Committee announced suspensions for Jo Kyung-tae, the longest-serving member with six terms (2 years and 6 months), Kwon Young-jin (1 year and 6 months), Jin Jong-o (2 years), and Seo Beom-soo (10 months).
Jo was suspended for allegedly asking members of other parties to support the defeat of his party's candidate, Park Deok-heum, in the election for the National Assembly vice speaker. Kwon was deemed to have disrupted party discipline by physically confronting floor leader Jeong Jeom-sik over committee assignments.
Jin faced disciplinary action for supporting Han during the by-election for Busan North, while Seo was involved in a controversy over remarks related to the 'Busan roundhouse kick' incident. Although the victim forgave him, he could not escape punishment. Jin was also implicated in the roundhouse kick controversy.
Some observers interpret the disciplinary actions as an effort by Jang to strengthen his control over the party, raising the possibility of appeals against the sanctions.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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