Yoon Seok-yeol vs. Hong Joon-pyo, 1-on-1 Duel Today... 'Party Dissolution' Remarks Clash Expected

People Power Party to Hold Presidential Primary 'Rival Debate' at 8:10 PM on the 15th
Tense Exchanges Between Both Camps Since Morning

Yoon Seok-yeol (left), former Prosecutor General, and Representative Hong Joon-pyo are receiving explanations related to the proceedings at the 4th broadcast debate for the People Power Party presidential primary candidates held on the 28th of last month at MBC in Sangam-dong, Seoul. (Photo by Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporter Kum Boryeong] Former Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-yeol and Assemblyman Hong Joon-pyo, who have exchanged somewhat emotional remarks while competing for the People Power Party's presidential candidate position, will face off in a '1-on-1' debate on the 15th. Hong has promised a fierce attack in response to Yoon's 'party dissolution' remark, saying "I just won't let it happen," setting the stage for a tense showdown.

The People Power Party will hold 'rival debates' in two groups among the four presidential primary candidates that evening. The first part will feature former Assemblyman Yoo Seung-min and former Jeju Governor Won Hee-ryong, followed by the second part with former Prosecutor General Yoon and Assemblyman Hong.

In the 'Yoon-Hong showdown,' Yoon's party dissolution comment is expected to be the biggest point of contention. On the 13th, Yoon said to his competing rivals targeting him, "If we don't change this mindset first, it is right that our party disappears," sparking controversy. In response, Hong stated, "(In the 1-on-1 debate) I believe party members will understand if I attack," signaling a 'bloody fight.'

Officials from both camps engaged in a war of nerves from the morning. Lee Eon-ju, co-chief of Hong's campaign, said in a radio interview, "It is closer to a reckless remark than a slip of the tongue," adding, "I think he will reprimand Yoon as a senior." On the other hand, Kim Byung-min, spokesperson for Yoon's campaign, countered, "This was a pointed criticism of the reality where candidates are desperately trying to bring down their opponents over trivial issues," and said, "It was a strong expression of the determination that everyone must get their act together for regime change." Since this debate is the first and last time the two candidates will compete one-on-one, Hong is expected to use all possible cards, including Yoon's policy content and controversies such as shamanism and the alleged report scandal.

Former Assemblyman Yoo and former Governor Won, who are ranked third and fourth in approval ratings, also predict a sharp confrontation. Won named his debate strategy for the day 'Breaking the Seal' and prepared for an offensive stance. A campaign official for Won explained, "Yoo will show his true self as a 'cold economist,'" and added, "Won will prove that he is a true economic leader with a passionate heart and a cool-headed solution."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.