In a significant shift in South Korean politics, Hong Joon-pyo, the former mayor of Daegu, announced his retirement from politics on April 29, 2025. During a press conference held at his campaign office in the Yeouido district of Seoul, he declared, "I will no longer engage in politics," marking the end of a 30-year career in public service.
Expressing heartfelt gratitude, Hong said, "I want to thank the citizens and party members who have supported me throughout these years." He emphasized his desire to return to life as a regular citizen in Seoul, stating, "I want to meet people in the markets and streets without any burdens." This announcement came shortly after he was eliminated from the second round of the People Power Party's presidential primary election.
The primary election results revealed that Kim Moon-soo and Han Dong-hoon advanced to the final round. In response to his elimination, Hong proposed an innovative idea to conclude the primary with a "one-shot national primary" involving Han Dong-soo, indicating that if he had advanced, he would have wanted to finish the election process in a more streamlined manner.
Hong's suggestion came with a sense of urgency as he noted, "We have been through so much with eight candidates in the race, and it seems impractical for Han Dong-soo to enter the final round against two others." His proposal aimed to simplify the process and potentially unify the party under a single candidate.
Kim Moon-soo, one of the candidates who advanced, acknowledged Hong's idea, calling it "a good thought" but added that it would require further discussion. He recognized the complexities of such a proposal, especially since Han Dong-hoon had yet to declare his candidacy officially.
On the other hand, Han Dong-hoon expressed skepticism about the practicality of Hong's suggestion. He pointed out, "We need to focus on the People Power Party's primary," indicating that the party's internal dynamics should take precedence over external proposals. Han raised concerns about how the remaining candidates would be treated if a new candidate were introduced into the final round.
Earlier in the day, Hong had hinted at his retirement intentions on his Facebook page, where he reflected on his political journey. He stated, "I have no interest in party power and would build Hong Joon-pyo's country if I were selected as a presidential candidate." This sentiment resonated with his supporters, many of whom have followed his career closely.
In his final remarks, Hong acknowledged the lessons he learned from his fellow candidates, including Yoo Seung-min's economic acumen and Lee Jun-seok's analytical skills. He also praised Kim Moon-soo's sociability and Ahn Cheol-soo's stability, demonstrating a sense of respect for his political peers despite the competitive nature of their campaigns.
Reflecting on his experiences, Hong stated, "I will accept whatever results come out and live accordingly." This acceptance of fate illustrates a maturity that comes with years of political service and public scrutiny. He also mentioned his understanding of Han Dong-hoon's self-reliance, adding depth to his reflections on the political landscape.
As Hong steps away from the political arena, his legacy remains a topic of discussion among party members and supporters alike. His decision to retire highlights a broader trend in South Korean politics, where established figures are reassessing their roles in an ever-evolving political environment.
In a country where political dynamics are often tumultuous, Hong's departure marks a significant moment for the People Power Party and its future direction. The party now faces the challenge of unifying its candidates and presenting a strong front as the presidential election approaches.
Hong's announcement is not just a personal milestone but also reflects the shifting sentiments within the electorate, which is increasingly seeking authenticity and connection from its leaders. As he returns to civilian life, Hong's next chapter will undoubtedly be watched closely by both supporters and critics.
In the wake of Hong's retirement, the People Power Party must navigate the complexities of its primary process while addressing the concerns of its members. With the final round of the presidential primary looming, the candidates will need to rally support and present a united front to secure victory in the upcoming election.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the implications of Hong Joon-pyo's retirement may resonate far beyond his immediate circle, influencing the strategies and dynamics of future elections in South Korea. The next steps taken by Kim Moon-soo and Han Dong-hoon will be crucial as they seek to lead the party into a new era.
