Will Lee Secure Support from Centre-Right Politicians While Kim Pursues Candidacy Merger?
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Synopsis
As South Korea heads toward the presidential election, Lee Jae-myung seeks to broaden his base by embracing centre-right politicians. In contrast, Kim Moon-soo aims for a merger with a minor conservative party. This political tug-of-war highlights the intense dynamics leading up to the pivotal vote on June 3.
Key Takeaways
- Lee Jae-myung is expanding his support base through alliances with conservative politicians.
- Kim Moon-soo is pursuing a merger with a minor party for a stronger challenge.
- Polls show Lee leading significantly ahead of Kim.
- The election on June 3 is pivotal for South Korea's political future.
- Coalition strategies are a key aspect of this election cycle.
Seoul, May 21 (NationPress) The South Korean Democratic Party (DP) presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung is actively courting centre-right politicians to broaden his political support, while Kim Moon-soo, the candidate from the People Power Party (PPP), is pursuing a candidacy merger with a conservative minor party to more effectively compete against Lee.
These contrasting campaign strategies have surfaced this week, as recent polls indicate that Lee has maintained a significant lead over Kim, with the presidential election approaching on June 3.
Lee has positioned himself as a defender against what he calls “insurrection forces” within certain establishment factions, while the PPP grapples with internal divisions following the unexpected martial law decree from former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who is currently facing trial for insurrection and recently departed from the PPP.
Rep. Park Kyung-mee, a spokesperson for the DP's election committee, informed the media on Tuesday that their coalition-building strategy has expanded into a “grand tent” approach, aiming to unite politicians from across the political spectrum.
Notable conservative figures who have recently endorsed Lee include Her Eun-a, the former leader of the New Reform Party (NRP), and former lawmaker Kim Yong-nam from the same party.
In various opinion polls, Lee consistently outpaces Kim with a comfortable margin. A recent survey by Realmeter revealed that Lee received 50.2 percent support, compared to Kim's 35.6 percent, while Lee Jun-seok from the NRP garnered 8.7 percent.
Although Kim has publicly urged the NRP's Lee to consider merging their candidacies, the NRP candidate has firmly rejected the notion of a merger with Kim.
On Wednesday, the PPP reiterated its appeal to the NRP's Lee regarding a potential merger. In a Facebook post, Rep. Kim Yong-tae, the interim leader of the PPP, stated that both candidates “must join forces in the end” as he stressed the party's commitment to reform.
After participating in the Asian Leadership Conference earlier in the day, the NRP's Lee addressed reporters, downplaying the likelihood of a unified candidacy and asserting that “there is no change” in his position on the matter.
Unless a merger is finalized by Saturday, ballot papers will be printed bearing their names, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
On Wednesday, Lee from the DP continued his campaign in his stronghold in Incheon, located west of Seoul.
He commenced the day with a YouTube livestream engaging his supporters, followed by visits to the districts of Namdong and Bupyeong in Incheon. His day will conclude in Gyeyang, the constituency he represents at the National Assembly.
Since initiating his campaign in Seoul on Monday, Lee has been concentrating on rallying votes in the capital region, visiting pivotal areas in northern Gyeonggi, including Uijeongbu, Goyang, Paju, and Gimpo on Tuesday.
Kim of the PPP has also focused his campaign efforts on the greater Seoul area, crucial for garnering support in this battleground region.
He partook in a televised debate organized by the Korea Broadcasting Journalists Club before heading to Goyang's northern outskirts to commence his campaign stops.
Additionally, Kim participated in a rice planting event with young farmers in Goyang and engaged in a roundtable discussion.
He then moved on to Gimpo to meet with young entrepreneurs, seemingly to attract the younger voter demographic. Other campaign stops included Paju, Dongducheon, Yangju, and Namyangju.
Point of View
It is apparent that the strategies employed by both Lee and Kim reflect the fluid nature of South Korean politics. Lee's coalition-building illustrates a desire for inclusivity, while Kim's merger attempts highlight the challenges faced by the PPP. As the election date approaches, the political landscape remains dynamic and unpredictable, warranting close attention from voters and analysts alike.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the upcoming presidential election in South Korea?
The presidential election is crucial as it will determine the direction of South Korea's policies and governance, impacting both domestic and international relations. It is also a litmus test for the current political climate and party dynamics.
Who are the main candidates in the election?
The main candidates are Lee Jae-myung from the Democratic Party and Kim Moon-soo from the People Power Party, along with Lee Jun-seok from the New Reform Party.
What strategies are the candidates employing?
Lee is building a coalition with centre-right politicians, while Kim is seeking a merger with a minor conservative party to strengthen his position.
How are the candidates performing in the polls?
Recent polls indicate that Lee has a solid lead over Kim, with Lee reportedly at 50.2 percent support compared to Kim's 35.6 percent.
What is the timeline for the candidacy merger?
The candidates must finalize any merger by Saturday, otherwise, ballot papers will be printed with their names as they currently stand.
