Ended After One Hour Without Progress
Differences Remain Over Timing and Method of Unification
The second unification meeting between Kim Moonsoo, the People Power Party presidential candidate, and Han Ducksoo, the former Prime Minister running as an independent presidential pre-candidate, ended without any progress. The two sides only reaffirmed their differences regarding the timing and method of unification.
The two candidates held a public meeting at Sarangjae in the National Assembly for about an hour starting at 4:30 p.m. on this day.
The candidates remained at odds over the timing of unification. Han stated, "I am fine with any method, including a primary. I will follow whatever the party decides," and urged, "Let’s settle this today or tomorrow." He reiterated his position that unification should be finalized before May 11, prior to candidate registration.
Kim Moonsoo, the People Power Party presidential candidate, and Han Ducksoo, an independent presidential pre-candidate, are greeting each other after concluding their second meeting for candidate unification at Sarangjae in the National Assembly on May 8, 2025. Photo by Kim Hyunmin
He added, "The candidate mentioned unification 22 times during the primary process, but now suggesting a one-week delay feels like you simply do not want to go through with it."
Kim countered that he has never changed his stance on unification. He said, "I have never said I would not pursue unification," and added, "The first person I am considering for unification is you, Prime Minister Han."
Kim also repeatedly raised the issue that Han did not participate in the party primary. He said, "If you decided to run, I think it would be appropriate for you to join the People Power Party. Why are you staying outside?" He continued, "After going through the entire primary process, paying the fees, and fulfilling all the procedures, why are you presenting a bill asking, 'Why are you not keeping your promise?' to someone who has done everything required?"
In response, Han argued, "Asking why I have only now appeared shows a lack of understanding of the overall situation," and added, "Questioning why I have not joined the People Power Party is really a trivial matter." He went on to say, "If you are not opposed, I will immediately join the party after unification."
The two candidates blamed each other for the responsibility of unification. When Kim said, "Since I promised unification, people tell me, 'If unification fails, it is your responsibility.' But wasn’t it candidate Han who appeared late and demanded that unification be completed?" Han responded, "You do bear responsibility," and pressed, "You must follow the will of the people and the party members."
Tensions were also evident during the meeting. When Kim remarked, "Saying you will neither campaign nor register as a candidate is not unification, but simply asking me to step aside," Han expressed discomfort, saying, "That seems to have crossed a line."
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