Public backlash, shifting polls and policy divergence raise risk of fragmentation before 2026 and 2028 elections

Cho Kuk’s rapid political reentry following his Aug. 15 pardon has intensified risks for South Korea’s ruling bloc, as political signaling outpaces institutional coordination within the Democratic Party (DP) and its allies.

The return of the minor opposition Rebuilding Korea Party (RKP) leader has destabilized voter coalitions, triggered internal dissent and raised doubts about the ruling camp’s ability to manage cohesion ahead of critical elections.

Cho Kuk’s rapid political reentry following his Aug. 15 pardon has intensified risks for South Korea’s ruling bloc, as political signaling outpaces institutional coordination within the Democratic Party (DP) and its allies.

The return of the minor opposition Rebuilding Korea Party (RKP) leader has destabilized voter coalitions, triggered internal dissent and raised doubts about the ruling camp’s ability to manage cohesion ahead of critical elections.

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