제3정당의 한계와 가능성: 제22대 총선 종로구 선거구를 중심으로

초록

This study analyzes the limits and possibilities of third parties in South Korean politics, focusing on a third-party candidate in the Jongno-gu constituency during the 22nd General Election. Using participant observation and in-depth interviews, the study examines the structural and institutional challenges faced by third parties. To establish a clear definition of third parties, relevant studies from the United States and South Korea were reviewed, and New Reform Party was selected as the subject of analysis. The findings reveal that the primary difficulties faced by third parties in South Korea stem from the lack of regional support bases and organizational infrastructure. Third-party candidates struggled to develop constituency-specific campaign pledges and build close relationships with voters, which ultimately undermining their electoral competitiveness. Furthermore, various institutional constraints further weakened the position of third parties. Based on these findings, this study proposes strategic measures for the sustainable development of third parties, including strengthening grassroots networks, formulating distinctive policy platforms, and implementing political system reforms.

키워드