South Korea’s conservative People Power Party (PPP) has named its final two candidates for the upcoming presidential election, with the official nominee to be confirmed by the end of the week, Yonhap News Agency reported. The winner will face Democratic Party (DP) candidate Lee Jae-myung, who currently leads in national polls.

Former Labour Minister Kim Moon-soo and former PPP leader Han Dong-hoon remain in contention for the party’s nomination in the June 3 election. This vote will determine the successor to President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was removed from office over his attempt to impose martial law.

Former Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo and current PPP lawmaker Ahn Cheol-soo have been eliminated from the race.

As no one secured a majority in the second round—based on party votes and public polling—Kim and Han will go through a final runoff to determine the nominee.

Both have pledged to challenge Lee Jae-myung. Kim, who opposed Yoon’s impeachment, emphasised bridging political divisions and described the election as a clash of ideologies. Han, who supported Yoon’s removal, highlighted the need to unite conservative forces to defeat Lee.

The contenders are set to debate on April 30, with voting and polling to follow. The PPP’s nominee will be announced at a party convention on May 3.

Acting President Han Duck-soo, an independent, is reportedly considering entering the race. If he does, coordination with the PPP may reshape the conservative strategy.

After previously announcing four strong candidates, the PPP now faces the real test: can it unite its base and present a compelling alternative to the increasingly popular Lee Jae-myung? The next few days will likely set the tone for a fierce and unpredictable race.