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Kim Yong-tae, interim leader of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), speaks during a central election campaign committee meeting at the National Assembly on May 26. / Source: Yonhap News

The ruling People Power Party (PPP) on May 26 publicly called on New Reform Party presidential candidate Lee Jun-seok to unite with PPP candidate Kim Moon-soo before early voting begins on May 29. The appeal, seen as a last-ditch effort to consolidate the conservative vote, reflects growing pressure within the party as the race tightens against Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung.

Speaking at a central campaign committee meeting at the National Assembly, PPP interim leader Kim Yong-tae said, “Lee Jun-seok has made it clear that he’s determined to stop President Lee Jae-myung from taking power. That means we’re not on opposing sides.” Kim acknowledged that Lee had expressed reluctance toward unification, but added, “If we share the same goals and mission, I believe he isn’t absolutely against the idea. We invite the New Reform Party to propose its conditions for unification.”

Kim emphasized his party’s willingness to embrace the New Reform Party’s policy priorities, especially on youth issues. “We are ready to sincerely adopt the youth-focused policies of the New Reform Party. Addressing the dreams, frustrations, and challenges of young people is how we meet the demands of this era,” he said.

PPP floor leader Kwon Seong-dong echoed the call for unification during a separate press briefing, acknowledging that Lee Jun-seok’s campaign was gaining traction. “His strong performance is helping expand the centrist-conservative base,” Kwon said. “From that perspective, unification is necessary.” However, he cautioned against excessive pressure, saying, “While unification is important, we shouldn’t be seen as clinging to or overly fixated on Lee’s decision.”

Chief spokesperson Shin Dong-wook reiterated on KBS radio that any path forward ultimately depends on Lee. “This isn’t a backroom deal like merchants haggling,” Shin said. “We are making this appeal because we hope Lee will make a decision with the bigger picture in mind—both history and the times we live in.”

In political circles, it is widely believed that any unification must occur before early voting begins on May 29. Yet the New Reform Party has consistently rejected even entering negotiations. PPP leaders had previously suggested a 100% public primary and the formation of a joint government as potential terms. In response, Lee dismissed the offer, saying, “Please come to your senses.”

In a message sent to party members the same day, Lee reaffirmed his stance. “We have been clear from the start that we intend to run through to the end and win,” he wrote. “But instead of respecting our decision, they now say ‘It’s all your fault,’ and threaten us with political exile. That’s nothing short of gaslighting.”

Lee concluded by stating that if unification were to happen, “It would only be if the other party’s candidate steps down”—effectively demanding Kim Moon-soo’s withdrawal.