Sohn Finally Joins Hands with the Lawmakers against the GNP

Former Gyeonggi Governor Sohn Hak-gyu announced his intention to join the political coalition (the Grand Coalition) led by former ruling party lawmakers.

According to Rep. Woo Sang-ho, Mr. Sohn met former Uri Party Chairman Kim Geun-tae at a hotel in Yeouido, Yeongdeungpo-gu. Rep. Woo said, “Former Governor Sohn has agreed to participate in and actively support the former chairman’s effort to form a political alliance against the popular GNP candidate.”

Sohn said, “The Grand Coalition will be the cornerstone and foundation to unite the public.”

Since his defection from the GNP in March, Sohn has asked for “a political coalition composed of lawmakers from neither the Uri Party nor the GNP.” His announcement today seems to show his determination of taking part in Chairman Kim’s coalition group.

Sohn is said to be considering holding a press conference to discuss the way and process of joining the alliance after meeting with former Uri Chairman Chung Dong-young. Mr. Sohn is the most popular presidential hopeful excluding Lee Myung-bak and Park Geun-hye of the GNP. Once he decides to participate in the open primary of the coalition, the group will be reorganized for the presidential election swiftly.

yongari@donga.com