Ahn Cheol-soo, a member of the People Power Party, officially announced his candidacy for the 21st presidential election, claiming to be the only candidate capable of defeating Lee Jae-myung. At a press conference held in front of the Yi Sun-sin statue in Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul, Ahn expressed deep regret and apology for previously supporting President Yoon Suk-yeol in a unity move, acknowledging the wrongful nature of martial law, as ruled unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court.
Ahn emphasized the need for a shift in era by restoring the economy and daily life and clearing away past mistakes, urging for reflection and innovation as the foundation for national unity beyond Yoon Suk-yeol’s regime’s martial law and impeachment issues. He criticized the Democratic Party under Lee Jae-myung for contributing to national discord, suggesting he understands the party better than anyone else.
Ahn argued that the future of South Korea should not be entrusted to former prosecutors and legal professionals but to those with futuristic visions such as scientists and economists in the AI era. His pledges include a four-year presidential term with the possibility of re-election, major electoral reforms, a five-year new economic development plan to cultivate a million AI talents, as well as comprehensive reforms in pensions, education, labor, health care, and the public sector. He proposed innovations in foreign affairs, security, and economic security.
Regarding relations with the potential second Trump administration, Ahn insisted on securing advanced technologies, such as AI, to ensure South Korea is not disregarded and proposed the development of a nuclear-powered submarine and the revision of the Korea-US nuclear energy agreement. He presented himself as clean, suitable for leading AI industry development, capable of resolving medical crises, and a candidate appealing to centrists, asking for an opportunity if people believe there needs to be a change.
In response to questions about stagnant support in recent polls, Ahn pointed out that party disagreements over impeachment are resolving, and there is a growing consensus to prevent Lee Jae-myung from becoming president. He addressed concerns about frequent election alliances with other party candidates, refuting them by emphasizing his long-standing work with a three-party system and stating there will be no such instances given his position within a major party.
On constitutional amendments regarding power structure, Ahn suggested reducing some presidential powers to prevent issues experienced by past presidents. He proposed allowing a year for deliberation and coordinating it with local elections in 2026. Ahn also stated that the presidential office should be relocated back to Cheong Wa Dae, redesigned for security and functionality, partially opening it to the public akin to the White House model.