Gwacheon: The People Power Party's presidential candidate Kim Moon-soo has formally registered his candidacy with the election watchdog, committing to winning the presidency and transforming South Korea into a "great country."

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim expressed the significance of the upcoming presidential election, stating it is crucial for electing a leader capable of overcoming the nation's current challenges and striving for the people's happiness. He shared these remarks with reporters after registering with the National Election Commission in Gwacheon, just south of Seoul.

Kim confidently asserted his determination to be elected and promised to exert every effort to enhance South Korea's status. His candidacy comes after a tumultuous period within the People Power Party (PPP), where a motion to replace him with former Prime Minister Han Duck-woo was voted down by the party's all-member meeting, resolving a weeklong internal dispute.

Despite pressure from the party leadership to consolidate his campaign with Han, who showed stronger polling against the liberal Democratic Party's front-runner Lee Jae-myung, Kim managed to retain his position as the party's candidate. He described the party's decision as "highly unusual" and a "surprising miracle," expressing gratitude for the members' support in upholding democracy.

As the June 3 presidential election approaches, Kim emphasized his strategy to build a "big tent" coalition, aiming for national unity and responsiveness to the public's needs. Following his candidacy registration, Kim met with Han at the PPP headquarters in western Seoul, where they pledged mutual support to secure an electoral victory.

The meeting marked their first since Kim's reinstatement, with Han congratulating Kim and endorsing a united front for the election. Han indicated his willingness to assist Kim's campaign, although he noted the need to address practical issues before assuming a formal role as an election committee chair.