Park Geun-hye Attends People Power Party Retreat, Emphasizes Unity

Park Geun-hye attended the People Power Party's retreat on August 27, emphasizing the need for unity among party members, stating, "The smaller the group, the more we must come together and unite." This call for cohesion comes amid concerns over internal strife following the recent introduction of a direct election system for party committee chairs by the leadership of Jang Dong-hyuk.

Speaking at the retreat held in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, Park warned, "If we are divided while gaining strength against the majority, the outcome will be predictable."

She added, "When a nest is broken, the eggs inside are not safe. If the nest of the party shakes and breaks, your future will be the same. There is no enemy more frightening than internal division when fighting against external foes. While various opinions may arise within the party, we must not hate or deny each other."

Park also stressed the importance of trust and camaraderie, stating, "The most important thing in politics is trust. Without trust within the party, it cannot survive. A party is a place where like-minded people gather, so the term 'comrade' is fitting."

She remarked that the difficulties currently faced are part of the process of strengthening their power to accomplish significant tasks for the people and the nation. Despite the challenges of being a minority party, she asserted that if they face reality and work together, they can earn the public's trust, become the majority party, and regain power.

Park expressed hope that this retreat would strengthen the camaraderie among members, urging them to unite around the leadership during difficult times.

She also called on the leadership to carefully consider the public's will in guiding the party, stating, "The nation comes before individual thoughts, the lives of the people come before small interests within the party, and the Republic of Korea comes before political gains or losses. If you prioritize these, the public will recognize your sincerity."

This marks Park's first attendance at a party retreat since her candidacy for the Saenuri Party's presidential nomination in 2012. It is unusual for a former president to attend a party retreat. Earlier, floor leader Jeong Jeom-sik visited Park on August 19 to invite her to the event.