Lee Jun-seok, the former leader of South Korea’s ruling People Power Party (PPP), is now setting the stage for a new political venture. Distancing himself from the ruling party, Lee is looking to offer an alternative for South Korean voters. His prominence in the political discourse is evident: recent analysis shows mentions of Lee in the South Korean news media over the last month surpass other political figures, including President Yoon Suk-yeol and Democratic Party (DP) leader Lee Jae-myung.

The two major parties’ perenially low approval rates appear to have created an opportunity for an alternative political party. Lee’s controversial reputation notwithstanding, his initiative to launch a new party could significantly impact the dynamics of next year’s general elections.