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Kim Yong-tae, newly appointed interim leader of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), speaks during a press conference at the National Assembly in Seoul on May 15. / Source: Yonhap News

Kim Yong-tae, head of the People Power Party's emergency committee, on Wednesday formally raised the possibility of former President Yoon Suk Yeol leaving the party, marking a strategic move aimed at both broadening centrist appeal and consolidating conservative support ahead of the June 3 snap presidential election.

At a press briefing held at the National Assembly, Kim said, “I will meet with the former president as soon as possible and request that he make a decision for the good of the party and for victory in the upcoming election.”

“I believe the president will make a rational decision,” Kim continued. “As interim leader, I respectfully recommend that he leave the party.”

When asked about PPP presidential candidate Kim Moon-soo’s reported opposition to Yoon’s departure, Kim Yong-tae offered the party’s collective stance instead.

“As the emergency committee leader, I’ve seen that Kim has spoken extensively in the media about this matter,” he said. “Our party is fully committed to winning the presidential election. To confront the arrogance of the progressive camp, we need the former president to make the first move.”

Kim added that regardless of whether Yoon accepts the recommendation, the party would consider alternative measures.

“For example, we are reviewing possible institutional changes to the party constitution and rules to reflect respect for constitutional principles,” he said. “We’re considering a rule that would restrict party membership for three years for those found guilty or who receive a Supreme Court remand indicating guilt. This is being reviewed independently of whether the former president decides to leave.”