The ruling Democratic Party (DP) has chosen Han Byung-do, a three-term lawmaker from Iksan, as its new floor leader. Han emerged victorious in a runoff against Representative Back Hye-ryun after none of the initial four candidates secured a majority in the first round. The voting process combined a vote among DP representatives and an online vote among general party members.
In his acceptance speech, Han emphasized his commitment to advancing state tasks and enhancing people’s livelihoods to support the administration’s success. He also pledged to address internal conflicts within the party and work towards ending insurrection, reforming the prosecution and judiciary, and improving people’s livelihoods. Han’s term will continue until May, succeeding his predecessor Kim Byung-kee, who resigned amidst allegations of misconduct.
Han, a former senior secretary for political affairs to ex-President Moon Jae-in, is known for his association with the pro-Moon faction. He previously held key positions in Lee Jae Myung’s leadership and presidential campaign. The floor leader election followed Kim’s resignation over accusations of preferential treatment and power abuse.
The DP also conducted a vote to elect three members of its supreme council, with Representatives Kang Deuk-gu, Lee Sung-yoon, and Moon Jeong-bog securing the top three positions. Representative Lee Geon-tae withdrew after ranking fourth in the election.
