People Power Party Fails to Replace Presidential Candidate; Han Ducksoo Says, "I Will Return to Being an Ordinary Citizen"

Kim Moonsoo Retains Candidacy After Party Vote Rejection
Han Ducksoo: "I Take Full Responsibility for All Decisions"

Former Prime Minister Han Ducksoo stated on May 11 that he would "humbly accept and concede everything" regarding his failure to be nominated as the presidential candidate due to opposition from party members.

During a press conference at his campaign office that day, Han said, "To the respected citizens, members of the People Power Party, and supporters, I am grateful for having been given the opportunity to serve the country throughout my life despite my shortcomings." He added, "I take to heart both the encouragement and the criticism I received before and after deciding to run for president."

Regarding Kim Moonsoo, who was selected as the People Power Party's presidential candidate, Han said, "I wish him victory in this presidential election," and added, "I will do everything I can to help."

He also announced that he would no longer pursue a career in politics. Han stated, "Now I will let go of everything and return to being an ordinary citizen," and added, "I take full responsibility for all the decisions I have made."

Yonhap News

Earlier, in an attempt to replace the presidential candidate with former Prime Minister Han, the People Power Party canceled Kim's nomination in the early hours of May 10 and proceeded with Han's party admission, candidate registration, and nomination process. However, after tallying the results of the ARS vote by all party members, the proposal was rejected.

As a result, the party leadership's attempt to replace the presidential candidate failed. Kwon Youngse, former acting chairman of the People Power Party's emergency committee, resigned to take responsibility for the series of events. Kwon stated, "It is deeply regrettable that we failed to achieve unification," and added, "I will step down, taking full responsibility."

Upon regaining his status as the candidate, Kim Moonsoo issued a statement saying, "Justice will prevail; now everything will return to its rightful place." He continued, "I will immediately launch the election campaign committee and build a big tent to establish a front against Lee Jaemyung," emphasizing, "I will unite with everyone who shares this cause."