On April 29, 2025, the People Power Party's election management committee announced that Kim Moon-soo and Han Dong-hoon have advanced to the final round of the presidential primary. This decision follows a second primary in which no candidate secured a majority of the votes, prompting a final contest between the top two candidates. Ahn Cheol-soo and Hong Joon-pyo, who also participated in the second primary, have been eliminated from the race.
The second primary's results were determined by combining 50% of party member votes with 50% of public opinion polls, achieving a final turnout rate of 50.93%. The results indicated a divided party, with Kim and Han representing different factions within the People Power Party. As the political landscape evolves, the upcoming debate and voting scheduled for May 1-2 will be crucial in determining the party's direction.
In a statement following the announcement, Kim Moon-soo expressed his commitment to serving the party and the nation, saying, "I will do my best to make Korea a great nation again." He acknowledged the efforts of his fellow candidates, particularly respecting their contributions to the race. Han Dong-hoon echoed similar sentiments, stating, "I think of Kim as a comrade, and we can be one team to defeat Lee Jae-myung," referring to the opposition candidate.
The People Power Party is gearing up for a debate on April 30, where Kim and Han will articulate their visions for the country. This debate is expected to be intense, focusing on key issues that have divided the party, particularly the contrasting views on the impeachment of former President Yoon Seok-yeol.
One of the significant variables in this election cycle is the potential entry of Han Duck-soo, the acting president and prime minister, into the presidential race. His anticipated announcement could significantly alter the dynamics of the election, prompting discussions about possible alliances or unifications within the party. Han Duck-soo's influence and the timing of his decision are being closely monitored, as they could reshape the competition landscape.
As the party prepares for the final selection of its presidential candidate at the national convention on May 3, the focus will be on how Kim and Han navigate their campaigns and the potential implications of Han Duck-soo's candidacy. The outcome of this election is critical, as it may determine the party's stance on key national issues and its ability to unite behind a common candidate.
Kim's strategy appears to involve consolidating support from various factions within the party, including those who previously backed Hong Joon-pyo and Na Kyung-won. This approach could strengthen his position ahead of the final vote. Meanwhile, Han is likely to seek support from Ahn Cheol-soo's camp, aiming to broaden his appeal among the party's base.
In summary, the People Power Party is entering a pivotal phase as it approaches the final round of its presidential primary. With the debate on April 30 and the final decision on May 3, the candidates must effectively communicate their visions while navigating the complexities of party dynamics. The inclusion of Han Duck-soo's potential candidacy adds another layer of intrigue to an already competitive race, making the upcoming days crucial for all involved.
