Conservatives Move On: Why Jun-seok Lee Has No Reason to Join Forces with Hong Joon-pyo

The Conservative Rift: Cho Wonjin’s Candid Remarks

Did you know how dramatically Korea’s conservative landscape is shifting? On June 16, 2025, Cho Wonjin, leader of the Our Republican Party, made headlines by declaring on MBC Radio that the conservative camp has already moved past Joon-pyo Hong, the former mayor of Daegu. Cho criticized Hong for his political inconsistency, referencing his retirement announcement and subsequent move to the US, where he alternated between supporting different political factions. Cho’s blunt statement—'Conservatives have already forgotten Hong Joon-pyo'—sparked intense debate among political observers and the online community. This moment underscores a broader generational and ideological shift within Korea’s right wing, as new leaders like Jun-seok Lee rise to prominence while established figures fade into the background.

Hong Joon-pyo’s Political Journey: From Retirement to Rumors

Hong Joon-pyo’s recent actions have been a source of both intrigue and criticism. After announcing his retirement, Hong moved to the US, only to remain active on social media and occasionally hint at a political comeback. His public support for Jun-seok Lee in the presidential race was seen by some as an endorsement of a new conservative direction, but others viewed it as an attempt to stay relevant. Hong’s ambiguous stance—oscillating between retirement, new party rumors, and sporadic public statements—has led to skepticism within the conservative base. Many community members on forums like DC Inside and FM Korea have expressed fatigue with Hong’s unpredictable moves, with comments such as 'Hong’s time is over' and 'Let new leaders take the stage' gaining traction.

Jun-seok Lee: The New Asset of the Right

Jun-seok Lee, leader of the New Reform Party, is increasingly seen as the future of Korean conservatism. Cho Wonjin praised Lee as a valuable asset to the right, especially after Lee garnered 8% of the vote in the recent presidential election—a significant achievement for a third-party candidate. Lee’s ability to attract younger voters and his reputation for bold, sometimes controversial statements have made him both a symbol of change and a lightning rod for criticism. Community reactions are mixed: on Instiz and Theqoo, some praise Lee’s modern approach and willingness to challenge the old guard, while others question whether his party can truly unite the fractured right. Nonetheless, Lee’s political capital is on the rise, and many believe he is better positioned to lead the conservatives than figures from previous generations.

Rumors of Alliance: Why Lee and Hong Won’t Join Forces

Despite speculation in the media and online communities, both Lee and Hong have publicly denied any plans to form a new party or political alliance. Lee stated on his Facebook that he has never discussed creating a new party with Hong, and Hong has also distanced himself from such rumors. Analysts suggest that while both politicians have criticized the mainstream conservative party, their political goals and styles are fundamentally different. Lee is focused on building a reformist, youth-oriented movement, while Hong’s base is older and more traditional. Naver blogs and Tistory posts highlight that any alliance would likely be short-lived and fraught with ideological clashes. Comments like 'They’re too different to work together' and 'This is just media hype' are common across Korean social platforms.

Community Reactions: Online and Offline Buzz

The debate over a potential Lee-Hong alliance has ignited passionate discussions across Korea’s major online communities. On DC Inside and FM Korea, many users agree with Cho Wonjin’s assessment, arguing that Hong’s era has ended and that Lee represents the future. Some, however, lament the continued division within the right, warning that infighting could weaken their chances in the next election. Nate Pann and Daum forums feature both supportive and critical voices, with representative comments such as 'Lee should go his own way' and 'Hong needs to retire for good.' Offline, political commentators on TV and radio have echoed these sentiments, noting that the conservative base is searching for new leadership and a fresh vision.

Cultural Insight: Why This Matters to International Fans

For international readers, understanding these dynamics is key to grasping the unique nature of Korean political fandom. In Korea, politics often resembles a fandom culture, with supporters fiercely loyal to their chosen leaders and quick to turn on those who fall out of favor. The rivalry between Lee and Hong is not just about policy—it’s about generational change, personal branding, and the struggle for relevance in a rapidly evolving society. As Korea’s conservatives seek to reinvent themselves, the rise of figures like Jun-seok Lee signals a broader shift toward youth engagement and digital-savvy politics. For fans of Korean culture, this political drama offers a fascinating glimpse into how leadership, loyalty, and legacy play out on the national stage.

The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Korean Conservatism?

With Hong Joon-pyo’s influence waning and Jun-seok Lee’s star on the rise, the conservative movement in Korea faces a critical crossroads. Will Lee succeed in uniting the right and presenting a credible alternative to the ruling party? Or will old divisions and personal rivalries continue to hinder progress? The coming months will be crucial, as party leaders strategize for the next election and seek to capture the imagination of a changing electorate. One thing is clear: the era of unquestioned deference to political elders is over, and a new generation is ready to shape the future of Korean conservatism.