PPP presidential finalists differ on timing of merger with Han Duck-soo
Kim Moon-soo and Han Dong-hoon, the two finalists in the People Power Party's presidential primary, expressed differing views Wednesday on the timing of merging with outside contenders, particularly acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who is widely expected to declare his candidacy this week.
During a televised debate aired by TV Chosun, the candidates were asked whether possible integration with Han should take place immediately after the party's convention. Kim said yes, adding, 'We can only discuss the merge after our party selects its candidate. I expect to win, and if I do, I will promptly pursue it in a reasonable and timely manner.'
Han refrained from a direct answer, saying, 'Right now, we should stay focused on the party's primary. Discussing when and with whom to unify is premature and disrespectful to our party members.'
In a later round of open debate, Han asked Kim whether he would consider stepping aside for Han Duck-soo if selected as the party's nominee. Kim responded, 'Conceding a candidacy requires a strong justification. I don't see one at the moment.'
Both candidates agreed that joining forces with Lee Jun-seok, former PPP chair and current contender from the minor New Reform Party, would strengthen the ruling bloc. They echoed the sentiment that 'all forces must unite to prevent Democratic Party of Korea candidate Lee Jae-myung from winning.'
On national security, Kim and Han voiced support for developing nuclear-powered submarines but differed on the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons.
Han warned that fixed-location tactical nukes could make surrounding regions vulnerable to preemptive strikes, citing the backlash over Korea's THAAD deployment in Seongju-gun, North Gyeongsang Province, in 2016. He instead proposed a rotational deployment system, stressing the importance of maintaining nuclear deterrence without fixed sites.
Kim offered an alternative: deploying US tactical nuclear weapons in Guam under a bilateral agreement between Seoul and Washington. He said this would enable airborne use in a crisis and help preserve strategic balance with North Korea.
Regarding China, Kim said South Korea should uphold its alliance with the United States but approach China cautiously, given its geographic proximity and complex economic ties.
The People Power Party's final nominee will be selected based on a 50-50 weighting of party member votes and public polling. The winner will be announced at the party's convention on May 3.
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