Overview

• The PPP has launched its presidential primary with eight candidates, aiming to narrow the field to two through debates and polling.
• Uncertainty looms over whether the primary will produce a legitimate nominee or serve as a precursor for Acting President Han Duck-soo to enter the race by the May 4 deadline.
• Reports suggest over 50 PPP lawmakers support Han's potential candidacy, with speculation fueled by his recent industrial site visits in Gwangju and Ulsan.
• The party remains fractured over its unresolved ties to impeached former President Yoon Suk Yeol, alienating moderate voters and weakening its candidate pool.
• Proposals for a broad “anti–Lee Jae-myung” coalition, involving figures like Han and former party leaders, highlight strategic confusion and ideological incoherence.