[Editorial] A Chang Dong-hyeok system with no future, becoming more ‘far-right’ and ‘party-factional’

The ruling party, Gukminhak, is facing controversy over its new leader, Jang Dong-hyuk, as it struggles to retain control and relevance. On May 20th, the Central Ethics Committee of Gukminhak suspended four of its members, including opposition lawmakers, citing "party membership cancellation" as a disciplinary measure. However, critics argue that this is merely an attempt to sideline opposition voices and prepare for the upcoming general election.

Despite the disciplinary actions taken against opposition lawmakers, Jang Dong-hyuk's leadership continues to be criticized for its lack of accountability and willingness to dismiss concerns raised by his own party members. The situation has escalated to the point where Jang Dong-hyuk plans to bypass the traditional system of voting for new party representatives, instead opting for a one-man show that aligns with his own agenda.

This "full purge" of opposition figures and internal dissent within the party is seen as a dangerous step towards the extreme right, leading to a "Jung Eong" (intransigent) party controlled by Jang Dong-hyuk. The outcome of these events may result in a radical shift within Gukminhak, where dissenting voices are silenced, and opposition parties are marginalized, ultimately leading to the decline of the party into extremism.