Han Ducksoo Camp: "Unification Must Be Decided by the 11th... What Matters Is the Candidates' Determination"

The camp of former Prime Minister Han Ducksoo, an independent presidential preliminary candidate, stated on May 6 that regarding unification with People Power Party presidential candidate Kim Moonsoo, "Reaching a conclusion on unification by the 11th would meet the expectations of the public and the wishes of People Power Party members."

Lee Junghyun, spokesperson for Han Ducksoo's camp, told reporters that morning, "Unification is possible even after the 11th, but if we are going to do it, I think we should try to reach a conclusion by the 11th at the latest."

People Power Party presidential candidate Kim Moonsoo (left) and independent presidential preliminary candidate Han Ducksoo are entering the Buddha's Birthday ceremony at Jogyesa Temple in Jongno-gu, Seoul on the 5th. Photo by Yonhap News

During the People Power Party primary, candidate Kim showed an active stance toward unification with former Prime Minister Han. However, after the primary ended, both sides have been at odds over the timing and method of unification.

The 11th, mentioned by Han's camp, is the deadline for presidential candidate registration set by the National Election Commission. Unification must be achieved before then in order for the People Power Party candidate to use the 'Number 2' ballot designation.

When asked whether Kim appears to lack the will for unification, spokesperson Lee replied, "I do not think he lacks will," but added, "It does seem a bit inconsistent to say in words that we should build a big tent, but then act differently."

On this day, candidate Kim visited Daegu-Gyeongbuk (TK) and Busan for a two-day, one-night schedule without any discussions on unification. When asked whether there is not enough time for unification, spokesperson Lee said, "What matters most is the determination of the candidates, and their will is the most important factor."

He continued, "There are ways such as holding debates between the candidates and conducting public opinion polls, and if that does not work, we could skip the debates and only conduct a poll. If an agreement is reached, it could also take the form of one candidate being endorsed by the other. We have left the method entirely up to the People Power Party, so if they make a proposal, we are willing to accept any option."