SEOUL — Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced his departure from the ruling People Power Party (PPP) on Saturday, as the country prepares for a snap presidential election scheduled for June 3.
Yoon, who was impeached in December 2024 following an attempt to declare martial law, revealed his resignation from the conservative party through a Facebook post.
In his message, he called on his supporters to back PPP presidential candidate Kim Moon-soo.
Yoon’s impeachment led to the early election, originally set for March 2027.
The PPP officially confirmed Kim Moon-soo as its candidate. Kim previously served as labor minister under Yoon’s administration and has since gained recognition for his role in labor policy. The party hopes Kim’s candidacy will help rebuild public trust ahead of the vote.
The main opposition Democratic Party, led by Lee Jae-myung, holds the lead in recent opinion polls. Lee, a former Gyeonggi Province governor and 2022 presidential candidate, has emerged as the frontrunner in the race.
Yoon served as president from 2022 until his impeachment. His tenure was marked by political polarization and controversy, culminating in the current political crisis.
South Korea’s election laws require all citizens aged 18 and older to participate in the presidential vote.
Yoon stated that his resignation from the PPP was intended to support the party’s electoral chances and reduce internal friction.
