Former prime minister declares presidential bid

Former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo announces his presidential bid at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, Friday. Yonhap

Former acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo officially announced his presidential candidacy on Friday, pledging to launch constitutional reform immediately upon taking office and to step down in the third year of his term once the process is complete.

Han formally stepped down as acting president and prime minister on Thursday, fueling expectations of his candidacy, which he confirmed the following day.

Han has held several key positions, including Korea’s first trade minister, minister of economy and finance, prime minister and ambassador to the United States.

In his speech announcing his candidacy, Han cited growing global and domestic turmoil, warning that dramatic shifts in trade dynamics and international order are making it increasingly difficult for most countries to foresee what lies ahead.

"Our nation is also gripped by internal unrest, as conflict and division threaten the foundations of our society," he said.

"I have decided to step forward out of love for the country and a sense of responsibility for our shared future. I will do my utmost to earn the public’s trust in this presidential election," he added.

Han outlined three key pillars of his policy agenda: immediate constitutional reform, tackling trade challenges and promoting inclusive governance. He pledged to establish a presidential committee on constitutional reform on his first day in office and to begin discussions without delay if elected.

"I will draft an amendment in the first year, complete the reform in the second and in the third year, hold general and presidential elections under the new Constitution before stepping down from office," he said.

Under his proposed timeline, the next presidential term would conclude in 2028, aligning both the general and presidential elections in the same year.

The details of the reform, Han said, would be shaped through consultations with the National Assembly and input from the public.

"I will only suggest the core principles of checks and balances and decentralization," Han added.

He also promised to address the country’s pressing trade challenges, citing his extensive experience in economic and diplomatic affairs.

"I’ve spent more time on this than anyone else, leading numerous successful trade negotiations across various roles, and I’m confident no one is better equipped to handle it," he said.

He further pledged to promote national unity and inclusive governance with policies aimed at supporting vulnerable populations.

"I will form a high-performing Cabinet by appointing the most capable individuals in key areas — from job creation and housing to transportation, health care, child care and senior welfare," he said.

Regarding the possibility of fielding a unified candidate with the People Power Party (PPP) contenders, Han stated that he is open to cooperating with anyone who supports constitutional reform and would consider uniting if necessary.

A potential single candidacy between Han and the PPP remains a key variable for consolidating conservative support, particularly in opposing Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) candidate Lee Jae-myung.

Former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, left, greets Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon at a community facility in Jongno District, Seoul, Friday. Yonhap

As his first campaign move, Han plans to visit an economically depressed area in Donui-dong, Jongno District, central Seoul. He previously visited the area in late July 2022 to inspect government efforts during a summer heatwave.

During a meeting with Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, Han emphasized the need for stronger support measures for vulnerable groups as a means of fostering social integration. His visit aligns with the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s ongoing emphasis on inclusive governance, suggesting his campaign is echoing a similar vision of a more cohesive society.

Another stop on Han’s campaign trail is the May 18th National Cemetery in Gwangju, a site widely recognized as the symbolic heart of Korea’s pro-democracy movement.

His visit, coinciding with his presidential bid announcement, is seen as a gesture of national unity and a strategic appeal to voters in Gwangju and the Jeolla provinces, which are traditionally strongholds of the DPK.