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The ruling People Power Party (PPP) on April 22 confirmed four candidates advancing to the second round of its presidential primary for the 21st election. The candidates are Kim Moon-soo, Ahn Cheol-soo, Han Dong-hoon, and Hong Joon-pyo. / Source: Yonhap News

Four contenders—Kim Moon-soo, Ahn Cheol-soo, Han Dong-hoon, and Hong Joon-pyo—have emerged as finalists in the People Power Party's (PPP) early presidential primary, surviving a fierce round of competition. While Kim, Han, and Hong, long viewed as the dominant trio, advanced with little surprise, Ahn secured the final spot in a close battle with Na Kyung-won. Na, along with Yang Hyang-ja, Yoo Jung-bok, and Lee Cheol-woo, was eliminated from the race.

On April 22, the PPP’s election committee announced the results of the first round, which reduced the number of candidates from eight to four. Looking ahead, the race is expected to take shape as a “2 versus 2” contest, with Kim and Hong representing the anti-impeachment faction and Ahn and Han aligned with the pro-impeachment camp.

Election committee chair Hwang Woo-yea praised the candidates, saying, “Each and every one of them has been admirable. Their experience and passion are valuable, and I believe these qualities will ultimately contribute to the PPP’s policy platform and the nation’s development.”

He explained that the first-round primary was conducted via public opinion surveys over two days, April 21 and 22. “The process was completed with candidate representatives present during the ballot opening and counting. Based on the results, four candidates were selected for the second round,” Hwang said. He also warned that “anyone spreading unverified rankings or data to disrupt the party primary will face serious consequences.”

Hwang expressed gratitude to all participants, adding, “Although the primary was brief, each candidate gave their best and presented themselves well to voters. I wish them continued success.”

The initial survey involved five polling agencies, each surveying 800 members of the public, for a total of 4,000 respondents. The poll employed a “100% public opinion” model with safeguards against strategic voting.

The second round of the primary, which factors in 50% party members and 50% public opinion, will be conducted on April 27 and 28, with the results announced on April 29. If any candidate secures a majority in this round, they will be confirmed as the party’s nominee without a final runoff. If not, a runoff between the top two candidates will be held via another round of polling on May 1 and 2, with the final nominee announced at a party convention on May 3.