Seoul: The final television debate ahead of Korea's upcoming presidential election saw a heated exchange among the candidates. Lee Jae-myung of the liberal Democratic Party of Korea, Kim Moon-soo of the conservative People Power Party, Lee Jun-seok of the Reform Party, and Kwon Young-kook of the Korean Democratic Labor Party engaged in a spirited discussion on political divide, reforms, and foreign policy issues. The debate was marked by direct confrontations over each other's perceived flaws, both related and unrelated to the campaign.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the debate occurred against the backdrop of six months of political turbulence, with expectations that the candidates would present forward-looking plans to restore Korea's democratic functions. Lee Jae-myung emphasized "politics of dialogue, communication, respect for others and compromise," while Kim Moon-soo advocated for "politics of integration." Kwon Young-kook pushed for banning satellite parties and constitutional revision, a widely shared demand since the Dec. 3 martial law declaration.
Despite addressing these issues, the candidates focused on criticizing each other's perceived weaknesses. Lee repeatedly questioned Kim about his ties with the impeached former President Yoon Suk Yeol and his stance on the martial law declaration. Kim responded that the classification of the martial law as an "insurrection" depends on ongoing criminal cases. Kim also challenged Lee on the Democratic Party's legal steps targeting judiciary matters involving Lee's legal cases. Lee distanced himself from these actions, claiming he was not involved.
The debate highlighted the rivalry between the frontrunners, Lee and Kim. Lee called for an end to the politics associated with the martial law debacle, while Kim accused Lee of "corruption and illegalities." This election serves as a judgment day for the candidates, but for many citizens, the focus remains on reviving Korean democracy amid its current challenges.
Lee Jae-myung faced significant attacks, particularly from Kim and Lee Jun-seok of the Reform Party. When questioned about past remarks and social media posts, Lee apologized but deflected questions about his legal risks, claiming wrongful indictment. The Reform Party's Lee criticized Lee for evading questions, urging voters to take note.
The debate could have been more productive by addressing tariff and security issues arising from U.S. President Donald Trump's administration or the U.S.-China rivalry. Kim supported Korea potentially developing nuclear weapons within the Korea-U.S. military alliance framework, while Lee of the Democratic Party expressed support for Korea having its own missile defense system.
With only sixty days to select a new president following an impeachment, the timeframe has been insufficient for parties to adequately introduce candidates and campaign policies. As election day approaches, voters must decipher the candidates' offerings and make informed decisions.