Can PPP's Kim Secure Support From Ex-President Lee As Elections Approach?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a critical move ahead of the elections, PPP candidate Kim Moon-soo seeks the backing of former President Lee Myung-bak. With the election just around the corner, Kim is striving to consolidate conservative support, reflecting the dynamics and stakes of South Korea's political landscape. Can this alliance turn the tide in favor of the PPP?
Key Takeaways
- Kim Moon-soo aims to consolidate conservative support.
- Meeting with Lee Myung-bak signifies strategic alliances.
- Potential unification with Lee Jun-seok is underway.
- Concerns over US relations highlighted by Lee Myung-bak.
- Polling shows Kim narrowing the gap with Lee Jae-myung.
Seoul, May 27 (NationPress) The candidate from South Korea's People Power Party (PPP), Kim Moon-soo, engaged in discussions with former President Lee Myung-bak on Tuesday, seeking his endorsement to bolster conservative backing as the election campaign enters its final week.
During their luncheon at a hotel in Seoul, Lee conveyed his support for Kim, taking a swipe at the Democratic Party (DP) candidate Lee Jae-myung. He remarked, 'Should the DP's Lee Jae-myung ascend to the presidency, he would govern the nation, while Kim Moon-soo would be the one to effectively manage it,' as reported by Rep. Shin Dong-wook, the chief spokesperson for the PPP.
Lee commended Kim's extensive experience in both the labor and business sectors, stating that he 'understands the challenges faced by workers and business management more than anyone else.'
Touching on the topic of potential unification of candidacies, Lee recounted his own experience of visiting independent candidate Lee Hoi-Chang multiple times during the 2007 presidential election to garner his support, advising Kim to demonstrate his 'sincere efforts' until the very end.
Currently, Kim is making intensive efforts to unify his candidacy with Lee Jun-seok, the candidate from the minor New Reform Party, to mount a stronger challenge against the DP's Lee.
Lee Myung-bak also urged Kim to visit the United States promptly if he is elected, expressing concerns regarding bilateral trade relations that have been impacted since President Donald Trump took office. 'Regardless of how much the DP's Lee claims to be centrist or pro-America, the US is already aware of his true nature in this digital era,' the former president stated, according to Shin. 'I am uncertain how he will portray himself, but I doubt any discussions in Washington would be favorable for him.'
Last week, Kim also met with former President Park Geun-hye in Daegu, as reported by Yonhap news agency. His meetings with these former conservative leaders seem to be a strategy to consolidate conservative votes as the June 3 election approaches.
Recent polling indicates that Kim has significantly closed the gap with the DP's Lee, the current frontrunner, thanks to growing conservative support.
Point of View
It is crucial to observe that the political maneuvering between PPP's Kim Moon-soo and former President Lee Myung-bak is part of a broader strategy to unite conservative factions. This approach underscores the significance of endorsements in shaping voter sentiment as the election date draws near, reflecting the high stakes involved.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Kim Moon-soo's meeting with Lee Myung-bak?
The meeting symbolizes an effort to consolidate conservative support in the final days of the election campaign, which could be pivotal for Kim's chances against the Democratic Party.
How does Lee Myung-bak's endorsement impact the election?
Lee Myung-bak's endorsement could enhance Kim Moon-soo's credibility among conservative voters, potentially narrowing the gap with the leading candidate, Lee Jae-myung.
What strategies is Kim pursuing to unify the candidacies?
Kim is actively seeking unification with other conservative candidates, including Lee Jun-seok from the New Reform Party, to create a stronger front against the Democratic Party.
What are the concerns regarding US-South Korea relations mentioned?
Lee Myung-bak raised concerns about the state of US-South Korea relations since President Trump took office, suggesting that the DP's Lee Jae-myung may not effectively represent the country's interests.
How are recent polls affecting Kim's campaign?
Recent polls indicate that Kim has made significant progress in closing the gap with Lee Jae-myung, fueled by a surge in conservative support, which could influence the election's outcome.
