Presidential Candidates' Four-Person Debate Likely to Be Held as Early as the 31st

Broadcasting Three Companies Send Official Letter with Proposal

The first TV debate among presidential candidates is expected to take place either on the 31st during the Lunar New Year holiday or shortly after, on February 3rd. The debate will be a four-way format featuring Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party, Yoon Seok-youl of the People Power Party, Ahn Cheol-soo of the People’s Party, and Sim Sang-jung of the Justice Party.

According to the Democratic Party on the 26th, the three major broadcasters sent an official letter to the four ruling and opposition parties proposing to hold a joint presidential candidate debate on either the 31st or February 3rd.

A rule meeting to discuss this was proposed for the 28th. The letter also requested confirmation of participation and alternative possible dates by the 27th.

Accordingly, the four parties are expected to begin practical negotiations and consultations with the broadcasters. The Democratic Party’s Broadcast Debate Content Team stated in a press release, "Candidate Lee Jae-myung accepts the invitation for the four-way debate from the three broadcasters," adding, "He is available for both proposed dates but hopes the earliest date, the 31st, will be confirmed."

The Justice Party also said, "Candidate Sim Sang-jung is available for all proposed dates. We believe the sooner the debate is held, the better for the public’s right to know," and added, "We hope the debate can be held on the 31st during the Lunar New Year holiday if possible."

Therefore, depending on the practical negotiations among the four parties and consultations with the broadcasters, the four-way debate could be held as early as the 31st during the Lunar New Year holiday.