The People Power Party (PPP) in South Korea has named Lee Jung-hyun, a former leader of the Saenuri Party, as the chairman of its nomination committee for the local elections scheduled for June 3. The party's leader, Jang Dong-hyuk, praised Lee's political experience and ability to break regional biases, suggesting that his leadership will help expand the party's reach beyond traditional divides. Lee expressed hopes for generational and political change, emphasizing a transparent nomination process without favoritism.

Lee has a lengthy political background, having entered the National Assembly as a proportional representative in 2008 and winning consecutive elections in Suncheon, Jeollanam-do. He has also held high-ranking positions in the Saenuri Party and was a close associate of former President Park Geun-hye. Amidst the preparation for the upcoming elections, the party leadership underscored their strategy to appeal to key demographics, including those in Honam, youth, and labor, with Lee's appointment seen as crucial for this focus.

However, concerns linger regarding Lee's connection to the pro-Park faction within the party, with some insiders questioning the appropriateness of appointing someone who might invoke skepticism about the party's direction, particularly in light of the need for moderate expansion ahead of the elections. Commentary around his appointment suggests that this might also serve as a gesture of gratitude toward former President Park Geun-hye, following her recent involvement in party matters, further complicating the political landscape within the PPP as it navigates these upcoming elections.