Will Former PM Han Duck-soo's Presidential Bid Spark Constitutional Change?
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Synopsis
Former South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is making waves with his presidential candidacy, promising a three-year term focused on constitutional reforms and trade issues. His rich background in governance and international negotiations may provide the expertise needed for significant change in South Korea's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Han Duck-soo declares presidential candidacy with a promise for constitutional amendments.
- Proposes a three-year presidential term to implement reforms.
- Plans to address trade issues utilizing his negotiation experience.
- Focus on national unity and inclusion of marginalized groups.
- Aiming for a balance of power between the President and the National Assembly.
Seoul, May 2 (NationPress) Former Prime Minister of South Korea, Han Duck-soo, announced his candidacy for the presidency on Friday, promising to shorten his term to three years in a bid to amend the Constitution and leverage his economic proficiency to address ongoing trade challenges.
His declaration at the National Assembly comes just a month ahead of the June 3 elections, where voters will choose a successor to the impeached former President Yoon Suk Yeol.
Even prior to his official entry into the race, Han was seen as a strong contender among conservatives, poised to take on the current leading candidate, Lee Jae-myung, from the liberal Democratic Party.
Before resigning Thursday, Han held the roles of Acting President and Prime Minister during the turbulent period following Yoon's brief martial law declaration in December.
“I chose to pursue a path for the future of the Republic of Korea, which I hold dear, and for all of us,” he stated during a press conference at the Assembly. “I will dedicate myself to earning the trust of our citizens in the upcoming presidential election.”
Han, who has experience as Prime Minister under both liberal and conservative administrations and previously served as South Korea's Ambassador to the U.S., made three commitments to the public, including an urgent constitutional amendment.
The plan is to draft an amendment proposal in his first year, finalize it in the second, conduct general and presidential elections in the third year according to the new Constitution, and then promptly step down.
The primary objective of the constitutional amendment, he noted, is to ensure that the President and the National Assembly share power with appropriate checks and balances, eliminate the juridification of politics and the politicization of the judiciary, and sincerely promote national interests and public welfare through cooperative governance and efficient administration.
Currently, the Constitution permits a single five-year presidential term, but under Han's proposal, he would limit his tenure to three years.
Han also committed to addressing current trade dilemmas, partially arising from Washington's new tariff policies, by utilizing his extensive experience in successful trade negotiations, according to Yonhap news agency.
Furthermore, he expressed his intention to work towards national unity and the inclusion of the socially vulnerable and marginalized groups.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize Han Duck-soo's extensive experience in governance and diplomacy. His proposed reforms reflect a willingness to adapt South Korea's political framework to better address contemporary challenges. However, whether these changes will resonate with the electorate remains to be seen, as the nation stands at a crucial crossroads.
NationPress
18/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Han Duck-soo's main promises as a presidential candidate?
Han Duck-soo has pledged to amend the Constitution, focusing on power-sharing between the President and the National Assembly, and to tackle current trade issues.
What is the timeline for Han's proposed constitutional amendment?
Han aims to draft the amendment within his first year, finalize it in the second year, and hold elections in the third year under the new Constitution.
Who are the main competitors in the presidential race?
Han Duck-soo is expected to challenge Lee Jae-myung, the leading candidate from the liberal Democratic Party.
How does Han plan to address trade issues?
Han plans to utilize his extensive experience in trade negotiations to resolve current trade disputes exacerbated by new tariffs from Washington.
What is Han's stance on social inclusion?
Han has expressed a commitment to fostering national unity and including marginalized and socially weak groups in his policies.
