South Korea’s conservative People Power Party (PPP) made a bold decision on Saturday. The party cancelled its recent primary and removed Kim Moon Soo as its presidential candidate. Then, it chose former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo instead. This happened just a week after Kim won the nomination.

Kim Calls It a "Political Coup"

Kim called the move an “overnight political coup.” His removal showed how unstable the party has become. The PPP has struggled ever since former President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached for trying to impose martial law last December.

Kim Won the Primary, But Faced Pressure

On May 3, Kim won the party primary with 56.3% of the vote. He beat a reformist rival who had criticized Yoon’s actions. However, top PPP leaders—many still loyal to Yoon—quickly turned against Kim. They pressured him to quit and support Han instead. They believed Han had a better chance of defeating Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung.

Han Resigned to Run for President

Han had served as acting president after Yoon’s impeachment. On May 2, he resigned from that post and announced his presidential campaign. He said his long experience in public service made him a strong leader for tough times. He also mentioned global tensions and trade problems made worse by U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies.

Talks Between Kim and Han Failed

Kim and Han tried to form a united campaign. However, those talks failed. As a result, the PPP’s emergency committee stepped in. Early Saturday, they officially removed Kim and named Han the new presidential candidate.

Han’s Nomination Still Needs Approval

Even though the PPP leadership replaced Kim, Han’s nomination still needs two approvals. First, party members must vote on Saturday. Then, the national committee must approve it by Sunday. That is also the deadline for candidates to register with election authorities. In a message, Han said, “If we unite, we can surely win.”

Kim Vows to Fight Back

At a press conference, Kim strongly opposed the party’s decision. He said, “Democracy in our party died.” He promised to take legal and political action. Still, without support from the party, his return to the race seems unlikely.

Kim’s Loyalty to Yoon Had Gained Support

Kim had opposed Yoon’s impeachment last December 14. Yet, he also said he disagreed with Yoon’s decision to declare martial law on December 3. He gained support from PPP hardliners when he refused to bow in apology at the National Assembly on December 11, even as other Cabinet members did.

Lee Jae-myung Leads in Polls

Despite all the drama, both Han and Kim lag behind Lee Jae-myung in recent opinion polls. Lee, who led the push to impeach Yoon, mocked the PPP’s leadership. He said, “I have heard of forced marriages but never heard of forced unity.”

Lee Draws Mixed Reactions

Lee has built an image of a reformer. He claims he can fix deep inequality and corruption. However, critics say he creates division and attacks his opponents harshly. Some believe his leadership could increase political tension.

Lee Faces Criminal Charges

Currently, Lee faces five criminal trials for corruption and other charges. If he wins the presidency, those trials will likely stop. That’s because South Korean law gives presidents immunity from most criminal charges while in office.