South Korea’s Acting President Han Duck-soo Resigns, Eyes Presidential Bid

South Korea’s Acting President Han Duck-soo announced his resignation on Thursday, signaling his likely entry into the upcoming presidential race as the conservative camp scrambles to unite behind a viable candidate.

Han, 75, a seasoned technocrat with decades of public service, said in a televised briefing that he had decided to step down to take on a "heavier responsibility" amid the country’s political and economic challenges.

"I have two paths ahead of me: completing the heavy responsibility I handle now, or putting it down to take on an even greater one," Han said. "I have finally determined to resign to do what I must to help overcome the crises we face."

His resignation paves the way for Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok to assume the role of acting president until the snap election on June 3.

Conservative Leadership in Disarray

Han’s departure comes as South Korea’s conservative bloc struggles to recover from the fallout of former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s controversial imposition of martial law in December 2024, which led to his impeachment. The main conservative party, the People Power Party (PPP), remains divided, with no clear successor to challenge the liberal frontrunner, Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party.

Local media reports suggest Han will formally launch his presidential campaign on Friday, positioning himself as a unifying figure for the fractured conservative base. A Harvard-educated economist and former prime minister, Han has held key roles under both liberal and conservative governments, including finance minister and ambassador to the U.S.

However, critics argue that Han, who has never held elected office, lacks a strong political base and may struggle to rally public support. His brief impeachment earlier this year—over accusations he failed to block Yoon’s martial law declaration—further complicates his candidacy, though he was later reinstated by the courts.

Legal Cloud Over Liberal Frontrunner

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Thursday overturned a lower court’s acquittal of Lee Jae-myung on charges of violating election laws, casting uncertainty over his eligibility. If convicted, Lee could face a five-year ban from office or even imprisonment, though an appeal could delay a final ruling beyond the June election.

Lee, who denies wrongdoing, has framed the case as politically motivated. His supporters argue the timing of the court’s decision raises questions about fairness ahead of the vote.

With the election just weeks away, South Korea’s political landscape remains volatile, as both major parties grapple with internal divisions and legal challenges. Han’s potential candidacy adds another layer of intrigue to an already unpredictable race.