Overview

• The People Power Party (PPP) has officially started its presidential primary, advancing eight candidates to compete for the June 3 election nomination.
• A series of televised debates and public surveys will reduce the field to four candidates, then two, with the final nominee to be selected by May 3.
• Acting President Han Duck-soo has not entered the primary but remains a focal point of speculation, as he could still declare an independent candidacy before the legal resignation deadline.
• Over 50 PPP lawmakers reportedly support Han's potential bid, fueling concerns that the primary might serve as a precursor to an external candidacy or coalition.
• The primary contenders are united in their goal to defeat Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung, who has a commanding lead but faces multiple criminal trials.