Han Duck-soo Resigns as Interim President of South Korea Ahead of Elections

In a significant political development in South Korea, Han Duck-soo has stepped down from his role as interim president just one month before the upcoming presidential elections. Following his resignation, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok will assume presidential duties in the interim period.

During a televised address on Thursday, the 75-year-old Han expressed his desire to take on 'even greater responsibilities' in the future. This statement has led to speculation in the South Korean media that he may be positioning himself as a presidential candidate for the conservative faction in the elections scheduled for June 3. However, Han has not officially confirmed any intentions to run.

Han Duck-soo has a long-standing political career, having served under both conservative and progressive administrations. His experience includes diplomatic roles, notably as South Korea's ambassador to the United States. He is also an accomplished economist with educational credentials from Harvard University.

Meanwhile, the former president Yoon Suk-yeol faces serious legal challenges as he has been indicted by the South Korean prosecution for abuse of power. Yoon, who is 64 years old, also faces charges of treason. If found guilty, he could face life imprisonment, with the potential for the death penalty also on the table.

These charges are connected to a political crisis that Yoon instigated in December, when he unexpectedly declared martial law amid a budget dispute with opposition parties. He justified this dramatic move by alleging that the leftist opposition was infiltrated by communist and anti-state elements, claims for which he did not provide evidence. Reports indicate that Yoon ordered military intervention to prevent National Assembly members from voting against his martial law declaration.

Yoon was ultimately removed from office by the Constitutional Court earlier this month. His actions have significantly hampered the country's economic growth and shaken the confidence of international investors.

As South Koreans prepare to vote for a new president on June 3, opposition leader Lee Jae-myung is currently leading in the polls. However, he faces the threat of disqualification from the election due to a ruling from the Supreme Court questioning his eligibility. The court determined that Lee had misled voters in 2022 with 'false statements' and breached electoral laws. This ruling contradicts an earlier decision from a lower court that had cleared Lee of such allegations.

The case has now been sent back to an appellate court, which will decide whether Lee will be allowed to run in the upcoming election. Lee has vigorously denied the accusations, expressing surprise at the Supreme Court's decision but maintaining an optimistic outlook. It remains uncertain whether the appellate court will reach a decision before the election, but analysts suggest that the situation could adversely affect Lee's standing.

Political scientist Shin Yul remarked that the development poses a significant setback for Lee and his Democratic Party. Although Lee has maintained a strong lead in recent polls, the ongoing legal issues could jeopardize his credibility and support from moderate voters, who make up about ten percent of the electorate.

Lee has emerged as a beacon of hope for many South Koreans during a period of intense political turmoil. Following an assassination attempt in January 2024, his visibility and popularity have surged. He has actively engaged with the public, urging demonstrations against the arrest of opposition members and challenging the restrictions imposed during Yoon's administration.

Despite the Supreme Court's ruling, the Democratic Party has expressed unwavering support for Lee, asserting that he will not be replaced as a candidate. However, some commentators suggest that the party may consider its options moving forward.