Saturday, March 29, 2025
In a dramatic political twist, hardline Kim Moon-soo picked as the new face of South Korea’s conservative bloc ahead of the snap presidential election set for June 3. This election comes in the wake of President Yoon Suk Yeol’s ouster for attempting to declare martial law—an act that plunged the nation into political crisis.
The South Korean constitutional court removed President Yoon last month, ruling his December 3 attempt to impose martial law as a serious breach of his presidential duties. The fallout led to the announcement of an emergency election.
In response, the conservative People Power party has now turned to Kim Moon-soo, 73, a former labour minister under Yoon. Once a democracy activist imprisoned for his beliefs, Kim has since become a staunch conservative voice, pledging business-friendly reforms and a tough national defense posture.
In his acceptance speech, hardline Kim Moon-soo picked for his firm stance on North Korea and his commitment to reviving South Korea’s economy through incentives for businesses and technological innovation. He also emphasized the need to support marginalized groups and young workers, referencing his activist roots.
“I have never turned away from the weakest in our society,” Kim said. “But we must start anew to regain public trust.”
Despite this, he remains one of the few conservatives who believe President Yoon’s removal was unjustified, a stance that may hinder his broader appeal.
Liberal frontrunner Lee Jae-myung continues to dominate the polls, holding close to 50% public support. Kim currently trails far behind at 13%, according to a Realmeter poll. However, the political landscape shifted again after a recent court ruling reopened legal scrutiny over Lee’s eligibility, casting temporary uncertainty over his candidacy.
Adding more complexity, former prime minister Han Duck-soo has declared his own candidacy. Though independent, Han may align with conservatives to bolster opposition against the liberals.
With just weeks remaining before South Koreans head to the polls, the conservative camp hopes hardline Kim Moon-soo picked can rally disillusioned voters and close the gap with Lee. The party faces an uphill battle as it seeks to rebuild public trust post-Yoon, amid ongoing legal challenges and shifting alliances.
