Will Lee of the Conservative Minor Party Unite with PPP's Kim?
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Synopsis
In a decisive announcement, Lee Jun-seok, the New Reform Party's presidential candidate, has rejected the idea of merging candidacies with Kim Moon-soo of the PPP. This decision comes as the June 3 election approaches, where the stakes are high for the conservative bloc against the Democratic Party's front-runner.
Key Takeaways
- Lee Jun-seok remains committed to his independent candidacy.
- Calls for a merger with Kim Moon-soo are increasing within the PPP.
- The DP's Lee Jae-myung leads in polls but has seen a slight decline.
- The deadline for candidates to merge is approaching quickly.
- Lee Jun-seok's campaign strategy focuses on a distinct vision for South Korea.
Seoul, May 22 (NationPress) Lee Jun-seok, the presidential candidate representing the South Korean minor conservative New Reform Party (NRP), categorically ruled out the prospect of merging his candidacy with that of the People Power Party (PPP) nominee, Kim Moon-soo, during a press conference on Thursday.
There have been increasing calls within the PPP to unify the candidacies of Kim and Lee prior to the presidential election scheduled for June 3, aimed at enhancing the conservative bloc's chances against the Democratic Party (DP) front-runner, Lee Jae-myung.
A recent National Barometer Survey (NBS) revealed that Lee Jae-myung of the DP garnered 46 percent support, while Kim received 32 percent, and Lee Jun-seok of the NRP came third with 10 percent, marking his first double-digit performance.
"I will continue my campaign under the banner of Lee Jun-seok and the New Reform Party until the end. We aim for victory," Lee Jun-seok stated.
He emphasized, "Despite external pressures and offers, we are steadfast because we envision a different future for South Korea."
The deadline for Kim and Lee to combine their candidacies is Saturday, to prevent both names from appearing on the ballot. Ballots are set to be printed on Sunday, as reported by Yonhap.
Although they can still unify their campaigns by Wednesday, their names will still be printed on the ballot in that scenario, just before early voting starts.
Compared to a week earlier, Lee Jae-myung of the DP has seen a 3-point drop, while Kim Moon-soo and Lee Jun-seok gained 5 and 3 points, respectively.
Kim has urged Lee to collaborate for a stronger challenge against Lee Jae-myung, but Lee Jun-seok, a former PPP leader, has expressed no interest in merging campaigns with Kim.
Feeling optimistic after the latest poll, Lee Jun-seok remarked that inquiries regarding a merger with Kim were "meaningless."
Lee Jae-myung made his first election visit to the southern island of Jeju, where he committed to abolishing the statute of limitations on state violence crimes.
Point of View
I believe that Lee Jun-seok's decision to remain independent reflects a strategic choice that could reshape the conservative landscape in South Korea. Maintaining a distinct identity may resonate with certain voter segments, enhancing the NRP's visibility ahead of the crucial election.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current political landscape in South Korea?
The political scene is heating up as the June 3 presidential election approaches, with the Democratic Party's Lee Jae-myung leading in polls and increasing calls for unification among conservative candidates.
Why did Lee Jun-seok reject the merger?
Lee Jun-seok emphasized his commitment to the New Reform Party and its vision for South Korea, asserting that external pressures would not sway his campaign strategy.
What are the implications of the current polls?
Recent polls indicate a shift in voter support, with Lee Jae-myung losing ground while both Kim Moon-soo and Lee Jun-seok are gaining traction, adding complexity to the upcoming election.
