People Power Party Representative Jang Dong-hyeok (center) presides over the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly. [Yonhap News] 

People Power Party (PPP) Representative Jang Dong-hyeok was hospitalized on the 18th due to health issues stemming from the aftereffects of his hunger strike, the local election campaign schedule, and on-site responses to the National Election Commission (NEC) situation.

According to the PPP, Representative Jang visited the emergency room this morning and was admitted following medical advice.

Representative Jang’s side stated that his physical exhaustion was caused by the rigorous local election campaign schedule and the need to manage the situation regarding the NEC on the ground.

It is reported that Representative Jang had also visited the emergency room on the 5th due to health and stamina concerns, but at that time, he declined the medical staff's recommendation for hospitalization and returned to his party duties.

Having publicly solidified his stance that there will be no resignation, including during yesterday's general meeting of lawmakers, Representative Jang is also reportedly considering a reshuffle of the second-term party officials in the near future to refresh the party's atmosphere.