PPP to survey its members about a potential united candidacy with independent Han Duck-soo, the temporary leader announces.
** The People Power Party (PPP) in South Korea grapples with internal strife during its presidential nomination process.** Interim party leader, Kwon Young-se, addresses the National Assembly, amidst rising tensions and conflicting factions.
Kim Moon-soo, the former labor minister under the ousted President Yoon Suk-yeol, secured the PPP's nomination on May 3 with a significant 56.53% of the vote[1], besting ex-party leader Han Dong-hoon who received 43.47%. However, despite Kim's victory, underlying tension persists[1].
Former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who served as acting president following Yoon's impeachment, announced his presidential run on May 2 after resigning as prime minister[1]. Recent polls depict Han leading conservative contenders with 13% support, double Kim's 6%, suggesting potential dissent towards Kim's nomination within the broader conservative bloc[1].
The PPP has shifted towards economic liberalism, introducing proposals for crypto reforms to deregulate digital asset trading, offer tax relief for small investors, and align with international standards for stablecoins and exchange-traded funds in 2025[2]. This shift contrasts with the party's historical leanings towards economic interventionism, signifying a modernization of its platform[2].
The party continues to serve as a big-tent conservative coalition, encompassing moderate fiscal conservatives, anti-communist hardliners, and reformists advocating for market-driven policies[2]. This ideological breadth increases the risk of factional infighting as groups vie for influence ahead of the upcoming election[2].
The PPP now confronts a pivotal challenge in rallying its base behind Kim while countering Han's insurgent campaign and withstanding the progressive challenge from Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung[1].
- The interviews during Seoul's general news programs have been focusing on the ongoing internal strife within the People Power Party (PPP) regarding the presidential nomination process.
- Despite Kim Moon-soo's win in the PPP's nomination with a significant percentage of votes, rising tensions persist in the party, especially among conservative factions.
- The PPP's recent policy-and-legislation shifts towards economic liberalism, merging proposals for crypto reforms and market-driven policies, might face resistance from conservative dissenters within the party, such as former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo.
- The upcoming Seoul elections will be crucial for the PPP, as they must unite behind Kim Moon-soo, face Han Duck-soo's insurgent campaign, and counter the challenge from the Democratic Party's candidate, Lee Jae-myung.
- The PPP will likely continue to grapple with factional infighting as it seeks to maintain cohesion and navigate the tumultuous waters of Korean politics leading up to the 2025 elections.
