[Politics Briefing] As the Conservative Bloc Reshuffles, Key Variables Like 'Impeachment' and 'Presidential Bids' Emerge
Seoul, May 2, 2025 —
South Korea’s political landscape appears to be entering another period of turbulence. Amid growing speculation surrounding former President Yoon Suk Yeol, the political future of former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, and the ongoing legal challenges facing Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung, both the ruling and opposition parties are expected to undergo significant reshuffling ahead of next year’s general and presidential elections.
Yoon Suk Yeol’s Enduring Influence and the Stir Over 'Impeachment'
Even after leaving office, former President Yoon Suk Yeol continues to hold considerable political sway. However, some progressive-leaning commentators and political analysts have cautiously raised the possibility of impeachment.
A representative from a civic group stated, "Various allegations were raised during the 2022 presidential and 2024 general elections, but investigative authorities under the previous administration did not take meaningful action. There are calls for a reinvestigation under a new administration."
Nonetheless, no legislative movement or official procedures toward impeachment have been initiated to date. According to constitutional scholars, impeachment of a former president is virtually impossible unless the alleged misconduct occurred during the presidency and is prosecuted while still in office.
Criticism of Yoon’s key policy decisions and appointments during his tenure continues to circulate across online communities and social media. However, no criminal charges or formal legislative actions have been confirmed as of now.
Controversy Over 'Election Fraud' Claims Continues on the Fringes
Claims challenging the legitimacy of the 2022 and 2024 elections persist among certain opposition supporters and civic groups.
Nevertheless, the National Election Commission has repeatedly declared that "all elections were conducted fairly and lawfully," and that there has been "no substantive evidence" of electoral fraud.
Most related lawsuits have been dismissed or rejected by the courts, and no serious legal violations impacting voter rights have been recognized. Some analysts suggest that such narratives may be part of a strategy to mobilize political bases by questioning the electoral outcome.
Han Duck-soo’s Resignation Sparks Speculation of a Presidential Run
The sudden resignation of former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has stirred considerable interest in the political arena. Analysts widely interpret his departure not as retirement but as a prelude to a presidential campaign.
Within the People Power Party (PPP), centrist conservatives and figures from the business community are reportedly rallying behind Han as a pragmatic and stable alternative. Speculation also points to the potential for Han to either build an independent political base or reshape the conservative bloc through new alliances.
Professor Kim Jeong-hoon, a political commentator, stated, "Han Duck-soo is known for emphasizing practical economics and global strategy over ideological politics. He could be a key figure in steering the conservative field away from its reliance on Yoon Suk Yeol."
Lee Jae-myung’s Legal Troubles Continue — A Source of Uncertainty for the Opposition
Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party, is still grappling with multiple legal cases. Investigations into alleged preferential treatment in the Daejang-dong and Baekhyeon-dong development projects, as well as corporate sponsorships linked to the Seongnam FC case, are ongoing — some now progressing to trial.
Lee has consistently denied all allegations, framing them as politically motivated and baseless. Within the Democratic Party, some believe the legal challenges have actually galvanized support. However, public opinion remains divided, with many centrist voters expressing unease over the opposition’s reliance on a figure still under legal scrutiny.
An anonymous political source noted, "If these legal risks materialize further, the party may be forced to consider a candidate change." Nonetheless, Lee's support base remains robust, and internal unity is being maintained under the banner of resisting “political retaliation.”
Uncertainty Surrounds the 2025 Presidential Race
As of May 2025, the path to the next presidential election remains unclear. The conservative bloc is torn between Yoon’s lingering influence, Han’s possible entry, and emerging third-party movements. Meanwhile, the progressive camp faces its own challenges due to Lee’s legal status and a lack of clear alternatives.
Experts predict that rather than personality-driven campaigns, voters may increasingly demand “trustworthy governance” and “pragmatic policy” from future candidates. Amid fatigue over ideological polarization and partisan infighting, the public seems more inclined to favor those who offer real solutions and moral clarity.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is based on a synthesis of public statements, media reports, and political commentary.
It does not make definitive legal claims about any individual or event.
All interpretations are made based on publicly accessible information and reflect political analysis — not legal judgment or verified court decisions.
This report is accurate as of May 2, 2025, and may change depending on future political developments.