As discussions about the 'draft proposal' of Acting Prime Minister Han Duck-soo continue in the political arena, interest is growing regarding his candidacy. Although he himself is drawing the line, the party leadership is receiving support while keeping the possibility open, noting, "Many prefer him." However, there is significant opposition within the party, stating that it would be a "minus in a crisis situation."
According to the People Power Party on the 10th, it is reported that within the party, a 'draft proposal for Han Duck-soo' is being promoted, mainly by four-term lawmaker Park Deok-heum and three-term lawmaker Seong Il-jong. Lawmaker Yoon Sang-hyun reportedly visited the Government Seoul Building recently to directly encourage his candidacy. That afternoon, lawmaker Seong arranged a press conference at the National Assembly, urging Han to run.
Regional committee chairs from Honam stated, "The only candidate capable of protecting the Republic of Korea as an economic and security expert and a proper fit for the global trade war is indeed Acting Prime Minister Han Duck-soo," urging him to run in the June 3 presidential election.
Those hoping for Han's candidacy emphasize that he is a former ambassador to the United States and an economic bureaucrat, arguing that he is suitable as a 'managerial leader' during the economic crisis triggered by Trump. They also point to his potential for expansion as a person from Honam as a strength. With the People Power Party's candidate likely facing former Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung, they believe Han's candidacy could shake up the presidential race.
The party leadership has stated, "There is no belief that some can run and some cannot. There are many lawmakers who prefer him (Kweon Seong-dong)," keeping the possibility of Han's candidacy open.
Emergency response committee chair Kwon Young-se noted during a meeting that day, "Han's response was very effective and appropriate," praising that Han had spoken with U.S. President Donald Trump on the 8th. It is also reported that Han received questions regarding his candidacy from President Trump.
The critical issue is the short period to decide on entering the primary race. Consequently, some in the party have suggested that special provisions should be made to allow Han to participate in the primary even after the registration deadline on the 15th.
However, the leadership has drawn the line, emphasizing the principle of 'participation in the primary.' Party Secretary-general Lee Yang-soo told reporters, "To become the party's candidate, one must participate in the primary schedule. If we create special provisions, those who have entered the primary will not remain silent," he said. Election committee chairman Hwang Woo-yeo remarked, "Since there is no preparation period, he must quickly board the train. A decision must be made this week." This implies asking Han to withdraw before the candidate registration deadline if he decides to run.
Within the party, criticism has arisen that the 'draft proposal for Han Duck-soo' could be a "blow to the existing candidates." A lawmaker from the metropolitan area told ChosunBiz in a phone call, "He is someone who plays a crucial role during a national crisis, and it is not right for us to demand his drafting just because we are in a hurry. It does not seem desirable as it could give the impression that the party has prejudices against existing candidates and is intervening."
A representative from the Han's presidential candidate camp stated, "The fact that lawmakers within the party are urging Han to run is already a significant blow to other party candidates. Even within the party, wouldn't they think, 'So the current candidates are not good enough'? It is hard to understand why the leadership cannot draw a line."
Lawyer Ahn Cheol-soo stated on MBN's YouTube that day, "Issues such as the livelihood economy and global financial tariff barriers are piling up and must be resolved by Acting Prime Minister Han," and suggested, "Han must have options regarding properly managing the presidential election."