Seoul: Former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has officially announced his candidacy for the presidency, pledging to shorten his term to three years to facilitate constitutional amendments and apply his economic acumen to address the ongoing trade crisis. The declaration was made at the National Assembly, setting the stage for the upcoming election on June 3, where a successor to the impeached former President Yoon Suk Yeol will be chosen.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Han has been a prominent figure among conservatives, seen as a strong challenger to the current leading candidate, Lee Jae-myung of the liberal Democratic Party. Until his resignation on Thursday, Han had been serving in dual capacities as acting president and prime minister after Yoon's brief declaration of martial law in December.
In his press conference at the Assembly, Han expressed his commitment to the future of the Republic of Korea, stating, "I decided to find something I can do for the future of the Republic of Korea I love and for all of us. I will do my utmost to be chosen by our people through the upcoming presidential election."
Han, who has a background of serving under both liberal and conservative administrations and has held the position of South Korean ambassador to the United States, outlined three key promises to the electorate. Foremost among these is an immediate constitutional amendment, which he aims to draft in his first year, finalize in the second, and implement through general and presidential elections in the third year, at which point he plans to step down.
The proposed constitutional changes are intended to balance power between the president and the National Assembly, reduce political influence on the judiciary, and enhance national interest and public welfare through cooperative governance. Under the current Constitution, presidents serve a single five-year term, but Han's proposal would see him serve only three years.
Additionally, Han has committed to addressing trade challenges exacerbated by Washington's recent tariff policies, leveraging his successful track record in trade negotiations. He also emphasized his dedication to fostering national unity and supporting the socially disadvantaged and marginalized groups.