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Ahn Cheol-soo, a presidential contender in Group A of the ruling People Power Party’s 21st presidential primary, speaks during the first round of primary debates held at ASSA Art Hall in Seoul, on April 19. / Source: Yonhap News

People Power Party (PPP) presidential contender Ahn Cheol-soo on April 24 urged acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo to refrain from entering the presidential race, calling such a move irresponsible and out of step with public expectations.

In a post on Facebook, Ahn wrote, “Please do not cross the river of candidacy,” referring to Han, who has been the subject of growing speculation within the party about a potential run.

“Han’s candidacy would be a dereliction of duty. The river we need to cross now is the river of impeachment,” Ahn said, adding, “While I recognize Han’s competence and integrity, his candidacy lacks both justification and benefit. It would be no different from former President Yoon Suk-yeol running again, and it would not stop opposition candidate Lee Jae-myung.”

Ahn sharply criticized Han’s association with the ousted Yoon administration. “Han was the only prime minister under the impeached Yoon government. He cannot claim innocence in the administration’s failures, the martial law controversy, or the impeachment itself,” Ahn stated. “His candidacy would go against public common sense and expectations.”

He also stressed the urgency of prioritizing national interests, particularly amid trade tensions with the United States. “South Korea is facing a critical moment in responding to the Trump administration’s tariff measures,” he said. “The U.S. typically finalizes key trade policies within six months of a new administration. Now is not the time to consider a presidential bid, but to defend our national interests on the diplomatic and trade fronts.”

Ahn further warned that a candidacy without clear conviction or justification would not garner public support. “Some political factions within the party are pushing Han to run for their own interests. I hope he finishes his public service with dignity and conviction. That is the image the people expect from him,” Ahn concluded.