People's United Party
The People's United Party (Korean: 민중연합당; RR: Minjung yeonhapdang) was a left-wing political organization in South Korea that operated during a volatile period of the country's political landscape. Established to represent the interests of the marginalized, the party positioned itself as a voice for the common people, operating under the evocative slogan "The hope of the 99%."
Founded on February 27, 2016, the party drew a significant portion of its membership from the Unified Progressive Party, a previous left-wing entity. By aligning itself with progressivism—a political philosophy supporting social reform—and left-wing nationalism, the party sought to challenge the established political order in Seoul.
Key Facts
- Founded: February 27, 2016
- Dissolved: October 15, 2017
- Ideology: Progressivism and Left-wing nationalism
- Political Position: Left-wing
- Membership: 21,712 members (as of 2016)
- Official Color: Orange
- Successor: Minjung Party
Political Activity and Electoral History
Throughout its brief existence, the People's United Party attempted to translate its grassroots support into legislative power. The party focused its efforts on two major national contests: the 2016 South Korean legislative election and the 2017 South Korean presidential election.
Despite its organized membership and clear ideological stance, the party faced significant challenges in the polls. None of its candidates were successful in winning seats or the presidency during these cycles. This lack of electoral breakthrough eventually led the party to seek a broader alliance with like-minded political forces to increase their viability.
The Transition to the Minjung Party
The People's United Party reached its conclusion on October 15, 2017. In a strategic move to consolidate the left-wing vote, the party officially merged with the New People's Political Party. This combination resulted in the formation of a new political entity known as the Minjung Party.
This merger marked the end of the People's United Party as a standalone organization, transitioning its resources, members, and ideological goals into a larger coalition.
Party Overview Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Leaders | Son Sol, Lee Gwang-seok, Kang Seung-cheol |
| Headquarters | Hanheung Building, Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul |
| Slogan | The hope of the 99% |
| Website | 99people.kr |
| Active Period | 2016 – 2017 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the People's United Party founded and dissolved?
The party was founded on February 27, 2016, and was officially dissolved on October 15, 2017.
What was the ideological stance of the party?
The party held a left-wing political position, specifically adhering to progressivism and left-wing nationalism.
Did the People's United Party win any elections?
No, none of the party's candidates won seats in the 2016 legislative election or the 2017 presidential election.
What happened to the party after 2017?
The People's United Party merged with the New People's Political Party to form the Minjung Party.
Who were the leaders of the People's United Party?
The party was led by Son Sol, Lee Gwang-seok, and Kang Seung-cheol.