**”Media Playing a Self-Serving Game”**
Korean Acting Executive’s Presidential Candidacy Rumors Under Scrutiny
The Democratic Party of Korea has urged Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo to clarify his stance amid recent rumors of his presidential candidacy. Recently, Han’s phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump has been criticized as “self-serving media play.”
Jin Sung-joon, the policy committee chairman of the Democratic Party, stated during a policy meeting on the 15th at the National Assembly that “What Acting President Han needs to focus on right now is not a hasty tariff negotiation.” He added, “First, he must clearly express his position on running for president.”
Chairman Jin accused Han of falsely portraying the U.S. government’s decision to delay reciprocal tariffs for 90 days as a result of his conversation with President Trump. “This is an example of self-serving media manipulation fueled by political ambition to run for president,” he said.
Further expressing concern, Jin remarked, “By rushing these negotiations, there is a concern that this might lead to a one-sided concession agreement. We emphasize again that major trade negotiations affecting national interest should proceed with consultation from the National Assembly. We strongly urge the formation of a trade measures committee in the Assembly.”
Amidst the rumors of his presidential candidacy, Han addressed a cabinet meeting the previous day saying, “I will fulfill the last duty entrusted to me,” and emphasized “what we need now is a strong will to turn crisis into opportunity.” However, his mention of a “last duty” continues to invoke varied interpretations.
The People Power Party has dismissed the rumors of Han’s candidacy. Floor Leader Kweon Seong-dong said during a strategy meeting, “Han is not entering the People Power Party’s presidential primary.” He added, “Further discussion of his candidacy does not aid primary excitement nor the execution of essential duties as acting president.”