People Power Party member Kim Sang-wook noted on the 8th, "I will walk the path of true democratic conservatism, not extreme right or reactionary conservatism," and stated he would leave the party.
On that day, Kim held a press conference at the National Cemetery of Seoul in Dongjak-gu, saying, "I leave the People Power Party."
He explained his reason for leaving, stating, "I have earnestly hoped that the People Power Party would perform its function as a legitimate conservative party for the nation and the people, and with that loyalty, I have continued to provide earnest advice, even though it has been lonely and difficult. However, I now have no choice but to accept with a heavy heart that the People Power Party is in an extreme situation where possibilities have disappeared."
Kim said, "Now is the presidential election phase" and added, "I will thoughtfully consider who and how I will support. Once the direction is set, I will honestly express my opinions." He also mentioned, "If given the opportunity, I would like to meet with presidential candidates such as Lee Jae-myung and Lee Jun-seok to share thoughts on resolving current issues and the direction of the country."
Kim stated, "I will listen to more opinions and think deeply, and decide on my party affiliation or other political actions based on what will help the people." He added, "I will take the feelings I have while leaving the party as seeds to turn this into an opportunity to truly serve the people."
Kim was elected through the party's first introduction of the national recommendation system in the 22nd general election, receiving a single nomination in Ulsan Nam-gu Gap. He participated in the resolution demanding the lifting of the emergency martial law on Dec. 3 and has shown divergence from the party line on key issues, resulting in friction with the party.