The race for the presidency in South Korea intensified this week as the acting leader, Han Duck-soo, announced his resignation amid speculation he plans to run in next month’s election, just as a surprise court ruling dented the candidacy of opposition front-runner Lee Jae-myung.
Han stepped down from his post on Thursday, and is expected to launch his campaign for the June 3 snap election, amid criticism for allegedly exploiting his position for electoral advantage.
The 75-year-old veteran administrator ended weeks of speculation with his announcement, which comes amid ongoing political turbulence following the impeachment of former conservative president Yoon Suk-yeol.
“I have stepped down from my role as acting president and prime minister,” Han said in a written statement. “I do so to take on a heavier responsibility and help steer the nation through its current crisis.”
With Han’s departure, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok was to serve as acting president in accordance with succession laws, but Choi also stepped down, as the opposition-controlled National Assembly moved to impeach him. Consequently, Education Minister Lee Ju-ho will take over as acting president.
