Han Duck-soo’s presidential bid officially began after he resigned as acting president and prime minister on Thursday. During a televised address, Han explained his decision to “take on bigger responsibility” for the country. Although he did not mention his campaign directly, he hinted at running in the June 3 election. He emphasized South Korea’s current economic and security risks as key reasons for his departure. Han said he would help the nation face global trade shifts and rising geopolitical tensions.
Han presided over his final security meeting Thursday morning before announcing his resignation later in the day. At the meeting, he urged top officials to stay vigilant against threats from North Korea and Russia. He addressed National Security Adviser Shin Won-sik and Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul directly. Han stressed that national security must remain a priority amid changing diplomatic dynamics. These comments framed Han Duck-soo’s presidential bid as a mission to safeguard the nation’s future.
Reports indicated that Han’s former aides already began preparations for his campaign behind the scenes. Former chief aide Son Young-taek and other senior staffers left their posts recently. Sources revealed that Han’s team opened a campaign office in Yeouido, Seoul’s political center. Many viewed these steps as signs of Han Duck-soo’s presidential bid gaining momentum. Observers believe Han could officially declare his candidacy as soon as Friday.
Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok will now serve as acting president in Han’s place, per South Korean law. Choi had temporarily held the role from December to March during Han’s suspension. Han faced impeachment at the time by the opposition-led National Assembly, though he later returned to office. Now that Han Duck-soo’s presidential bid is underway, attention shifts to who may support or oppose his run. Some predict that conservative candidates may withdraw to back Han’s growing influence.
The ruling People Power Party will announce its nominee on Saturday, with Han Dong-hoon and Kim Moon-soo still in the race. However, many believe Han may run as an independent or form an alliance with the party’s chosen candidate. This strategy could boost conservative chances in the June election. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party has fiercely criticized Han’s move. Party leaders accused him of exploiting public office for political gain.
Rep. Kim Min-seok from the Democratic Party condemned the timing of Han’s resignation and election preparations. Kim accused him of using state resources for a personal political plan. He warned that such actions could face legal consequences under election laws. Still, Han Duck-soo’s presidential bid continues to gather support among conservatives and moderates. Analysts say his experience could make him a strong competitor.
A recent poll placed Han second among presidential hopefuls with 13 percent support nationwide. Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung led the poll with 42 percent. Han Dong-hoon followed with 9 percent, and Kim Moon-soo trailed at 6 percent. The survey involved 1,000 adults and was conducted by Korea Research and three partners. The results confirmed growing public interest in Han’s presidential bid.
Han, 75, has served in top government roles under five different presidents. He previously worked as ambassador to the U.S., trade minister, and finance minister. He also held posts with the OECD and served as a senior policy advisor. Han earned his economics degrees from Seoul National University and Harvard University. With decades of experience, Han Duck-soo’s presidential bid adds weight to the 2025 election landscape.
