Will South Korea's Acting President Resign to Run in the June Election?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a dramatic political shift, South Korea's Acting President Han Duck-soo is poised to resign before declaring his candidacy for the June 3 presidential election. This move comes amid tensions following the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, signaling a pivotal moment in South Korean politics as Han aims for national unity.
Key Takeaways
- Acting President Han Duck-soo is likely to resign to run in the June 3 election.
- He is a prominent conservative candidate against Lee Jae-myung.
- His resignation could lead to a merger with the People Power Party.
- Han aims to address political divisions and promote national unity.
- Important election deadlines are approaching.
Seoul, April 30 (NationPress) The Acting President of South Korea, Han Duck-soo, is expected to announce his resignation this Thursday, paving the way for his presidential candidacy in the June 3 election, as per sources from government and political circles.
Considered a strong contender among conservatives, Han is set to challenge Lee Jae-myung, the liberal Democratic Party's candidate, in an election that follows the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol.
His resignation is anticipated to occur on Thursday afternoon, following his morning public engagements, according to insiders from both the government and the previous ruling party. A formal announcement regarding his presidential aspirations is likely to be made on Friday.
This announcement will reportedly include a message directed at the nation, outlining his vision for promoting national unity and preventing extreme political divisions that hinder the country’s economic and social progress.
Among the proposals being considered are potential constitutional amendments aimed at reducing the presidential term from five years and enhancing power-sharing arrangements, along with establishing a Cabinet that incorporates members from both political sides.
If Han declares his candidacy, it will inevitably lead to discussions about a merger with the People Power Party (PPP), which is set to choose its own candidate on Saturday.
The final candidates—former PPP leader Han Dong-hoon and ex-Labour Minister Kim Moon-soo—have both shown willingness to unite their candidacies with that of the Acting President.
As a public official, Han must resign by May 4 to officially enter the race.
Meanwhile, the PPP is contemplating various deadlines for finalizing any merger, aiming to optimize their chances in the upcoming June 3 election, as reported by Yonhap. Key dates include May 7 for the National Election Commission to order printed materials, May 11 for candidate registration, and May 25 when ballot printing commences.
Point of View
We remain committed to providing unbiased coverage of the unfolding political events in South Korea. The potential resignation of Acting President Han Duck-soo and his subsequent candidacy highlights the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of the nation’s political arena. We aim to keep our audience informed and engaged as this story develops.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Han Duck-soo's resignation?
Han Duck-soo's resignation is crucial as it marks his transition from Acting President to a presidential candidate, reflecting the ongoing political shifts in South Korea.
Who will Han Duck-soo be competing against?
Han is expected to challenge Lee Jae-myung, the candidate from the liberal Democratic Party, in the upcoming June 3 presidential election.
What potential reforms is Han considering?
Han is reportedly contemplating constitutional amendments to shorten the presidential term and enhance power-sharing, aiming for national unity.
What are the key deadlines for the election?
Key dates include May 4 for Han to resign, May 7 for printing materials, May 11 for candidate registration, and May 25 for ballot printing.
