People's Power Party Announces Candidates For Final Primary

The People's Power Election Management Committee announced the results of the second primary election at 2 PM on April 29, 2025, at the People's Power Party headquarters. This election was crucial as it combined the results of a general public opinion poll and party member votes, each contributing 50% to the final tally. However, the committee did not disclose the vote rates or rankings of the candidates, citing concerns that this information could influence future primaries.

In a statement made shortly after the announcement, Hwang Woo-yeo, chairman of the People's Power Election Management Committee, expressed gratitude to party members for their participation. He noted that the election had been conducted through party member voting on April 27 and 28, 2025, alongside a public opinion poll. "Thank you to all party members who thoughtfully considered the future of our party and our nation by participating in this vote," Hwang said.

As a result of the second primary, no candidate received a majority of the votes, which means the election will proceed to a third primary. The candidates advancing to this final round are Kim Moon-soo and Han Dong-hoon. Both candidates are expected to participate in a candidate debate scheduled for April 30, 2025, before the final primary election takes place.

Following the second primary results, Kim Moon-soo expressed his regret that he and fellow candidate Hong Joon-pyo could not continue together in the race. “I am very sorry that we could not continue together,” Kim said, reflecting on their long-standing political relationship. He pledged to support Hong’s goals, acknowledging the contributions Hong has made to the party over his 30-year political career.

Hong Joon-pyo, who announced he would retire from politics after this election, thanked the voters and expressed his gratitude for the support he received throughout his career. "I will now return to civilian life and live a little more comfortably," he stated, emphasizing his decision to step back from political life.

Meanwhile, Han Dong-hoon, the other candidate moving forward, highlighted the importance of unity among the candidates. He expressed his respect for both Kim Moon-soo and Ahn Cheol-soo, another candidate who did not advance. Han noted that despite differing views, he and Kim share a commitment to protect the country. “We must unite to defeat Lee Jae-myung in the upcoming election,” Han asserted, emphasizing the need for collaboration rather than competition.

Looking ahead, the People's Power Party will conduct a candidate debate on April 30, 2025, where both Kim and Han will have the opportunity to present their visions for the party and the nation. Following this debate, party member voting and a public opinion poll will take place on May 1 and 2, 2025, respectively. The final candidate will be selected at a party convention scheduled for May 3, 2025, at 2 PM at Ilsan Kintex.

The stakes are high as the People's Power Party prepares for a critical by-election on June 3, 2025, where the selected candidate will face off against Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party. This election is particularly significant given the current political climate in South Korea, where the need for effective leadership is more pressing than ever.

As the candidates gear up for the upcoming debates and votes, party members and the public alike are keenly watching the developments. The outcome of this election could shape the future of the People's Power Party and influence the political landscape in South Korea for years to come.