The camp of independent presidential candidate Han Duck-soo expressed congratulations on the confirmation of Kim Moon-soo, former Minister of Employment and Labor, as the candidate of the People Power Party on the 3rd, saying, "We sincerely congratulate you." Han Duck-soo's camp spokesperson Lee Jung-hyun reported that the two spoke for about 10 minutes and promised to meet soon.

Minister Yoo In-chon (from left), Kim Moon-soo of the Ministry of Employment and Labor, Deputy Prime Minister Lee Joo-ho, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, and Minister Lee Sang-min of the Ministry of the Interior and Safety are greeting each other ahead of the government Q&A session on education, society, and culture at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, on Sep. 12, 2024. /Courtesy of News1

The spokesperson noted in a commentary that "not only candidate Kim Moon-soo but all candidates who sincerely engaged in a friendly competition toward the nation and the people deserve our respect" and evaluated it as "a beautiful primary process that showcases the strengths of the People Power Party."

The spokesperson stated, "This presidential election is a very significant turning point in determining whether our Republic of Korea can make a transition to move beyond extreme division and chaos into the future" and added, "I hope we can collaborate with candidate Kim Moon-soo to establish a vision and solutions for the future of the country."

They continued, "I look forward to another journey to meet the expectations of the people and to take a step closer to victory that opens the path of integration" and added, "Once again, I extend my congratulations to candidate Kim Moon-soo and look forward to a dignified presidential competition with the people ahead."

Earlier, candidate Han called candidate Kim immediately after he was confirmed as the candidate of the People Power Party to congratulate him on becoming the final candidate. The spokesperson stated, "Immediately after the confirmation of the People Power Party's presidential candidate, Han Duck-soo reached out by phone" and noted, "Congratulations and responses were exchanged in a very friendly and pleasant atmosphere for about 10 minutes."

They added, "During the call, candidate Han said, 'I would like to see you soon,' and candidate Kim Moon-soo readily responded, 'Let’s do that.'" However, the spokesperson mentioned that there was no discussion on specific matters such as the timing of the meeting or consolidation rules.