Lost Reformist Conservatives: Lee Joonseok, Han Donghun, and Oh Sehun Face Crisis Together

Party Crisis, Return Obstacles, Mayoral Risk
Three Conservative Hopefuls Stand at a Political Crossroads
Prospect of Reformist Conservative Alliance as General Election Nears

Joonseok Lee, former leader of the Reform New Party; Donghun Han, independent lawmaker; and Sehoon Oh, Mayor of Seoul—who have positioned themselves within the conservative bloc as figures emphasizing centrist outreach and reform—are now standing at significant political crossroads. Owing to the weakening of their respective power bases within their parties, difficulties in rejoining their former parties, and judicial risks, there are expectations that it will be difficult for each of them to expand their political influence for the time being.

Lee stepped down from his leadership role on August 26, 2026, following the Reform New Party’s crushing defeat in the June 3 local elections and ongoing internal conflicts over party reform. Having given up the role that functioned as the party’s rallying point, it is expected that he will focus on his personal political career for now and seek new opportunities.

However, some analysts contend that if the Reform New Party’s approval ratings continue to remain low, Lee may find it difficult to maintain an independent course for an extended period. A party official commented, “While Lee currently dismisses the possibility of an electoral alliance or merger, wouldn’t any option be on the table if party support rises in the future?”

(Photo from left) Joonseok Lee, former leader of the Reform New Party, Donghun Han, independent member of the National Assembly, Sehoon Oh, Mayor of Seoul. Provided by The Asia Business Daily DB and Yonhap News Agency

The political future of Han—another prominent conservative hopeful—hinges on whether he is allowed to rejoin the People Power Party. Although Han has expressed his wish to return for the sake of rebuilding the conservative bloc, opposition from the current leadership under Donghyeok Jang and persistent anti-Han sentiment within the party remain strong. In addition, the direction of Han’s reinstatement may be influenced by an ongoing investigation into allegations involving the party member bulletin board, with police recently launching a forcible investigation through a raid on the party’s server management company.

The potential consolidation of the Buk-gu A and B constituencies in Busan ahead of the next general elections could also affect Han’s choices. While such a merger would not affect his current parliamentary seat, he would need to compete again in a wider district in the upcoming general election. If he is reinstated to the People Power Party, he may have to vie for the nomination against incumbent lawmakers. If he remains independent, he would once again face candidates from the two major parties in the consolidated district.

Mayor Oh is currently faced with judicial risks over allegations that a poll fee was paid on behalf of Taegyun Myung. In July, the court of first instance imposed a fine of 10 million won on Oh for violating the Political Funds Act. If a fine of 1 million won or higher is finalized, he would lose his post as mayor. On August 21, he appeared at the first appellate hearing, declaring his intent to prove his innocence. As long as these legal risks remain unresolved, it is widely expected that Oh’s activities as a potential future contender will be inevitably restricted.

On the other hand, as the 2028 general election approaches, there is increasing discussion that these three reformist conservative figures—along with former lawmaker Yoo Seungmin—could form an alliance to establish a new political focal point. Political commentator Park Byeongseong stated, “Because the current People Power Party leadership has weak appeal to metropolitan voters, it is possible that a new conservative party centered on reformist figures could emerge in the capital region as the general election draws near.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.