Seoul: Former President Yoon Suk Yeol announced his departure from the People Power Party (PPP) on Saturday, urging the public to rally behind the party's presidential candidate, Kim Moon-soo.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Yoon made the announcement via a post on his Facebook account stating, "I am leaving the People Power Party today," while emphasizing his continued commitment to defending freedom and national sovereignty. He encouraged voters to support Kim and participate in the upcoming election, highlighting the significance of each vote in safeguarding the country's future.

Yoon's departure comes amid his ongoing criminal trial following his removal from office in April due to a failed martial law attempt in December. Members of the conservative PPP have increasingly called for Yoon to sever ties with the party to improve Kim's standing against Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung.

Interim party leader, Rep. Kim Yong-tae, had publicly suggested that Yoon's exit would be a rational decision, advocating for the former president to leave the PPP to aid Kim's campaign. Kim Moon-soo, the PPP candidate, expressed respect for Yoon's decision, vowing to work towards a more united and innovative party that aligns with public expectations.

Opposition parties criticized Yoon's statement, pointing out the absence of an apology for his martial law attempt. Democratic Party spokesperson Rep. Hwang Jung-a and Lee Jun-seok, candidate of the New Reform Party, both condemned Yoon's lack of accountability and his focus on ideals like freedom and sovereignty.