Seoul: South Korean Acting President Han Duck-soo announced his resignation on Thursday to participate in the upcoming presidential election scheduled for June 3. Han revealed this decision during a briefing in Seoul, emphasizing the gravity of the responsibility he bears at this critical juncture.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Han, who is not affiliated with any political party, emerges as a prominent contender likely to challenge the Democratic Party's candidate, Lee Jae-myung. The Democratic Party currently holds a parliamentary majority, adding a significant dynamic to the forthcoming election.

The political landscape in South Korea has been turbulent following the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk-yeol. On April 4, South Korea's Constitutional Court unanimously voted to impeach Yoon due to his controversial martial law declaration, effectively removing him from office. This decision came after Yoon was indicted for abuse of power earlier on the same day.

Yoon had declared martial law on December 3, 2024, alleging that the opposition was conspiring with North Korea to incite a "rebellion." However, the parliament swiftly voted to revoke his declaration within hours, a decision to which Yoon acquiesced, subsequently issuing a public apology. The subsequent impeachment on December 14 underscored the controversy surrounding Yoon's actions, setting the stage for a highly anticipated presidential election.