SEOUL, December 14 (AJP) -- Han Duck-soo, South Korea's twice-serving prime minister, is set to assume the role of acting president Saturday following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol.
A veteran technocrat who has served under both conservative and liberal presidents, Han, 74, faces the challenging task of leading a politically divided nation through its latest constitutional crisis.
Lawmakers voted to impeach Yoon following 10 days of political turmoil triggered by his short-lived declaration of martial law, which opposition parties labeled an unconstitutional act of insurrection.
Yoon's powers were immediately suspended pending the Constitutional Court's review that could take up to 180 days. If the court upholds the impeachment, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days.
Currently serving as prime minister since May 2022, Han is one of only five people to hold the position twice. He previously served as prime minister under liberal President Roh Moo-hyun from 2007 to 2008.
The Harvard-educated economist's career spans nearly five decades of public service, including roles as finance minister, trade minister, and ambassador to the United States. He played a key role in South Korea's recovery from the 1997 Asian financial crisis and the negotiation for the South Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement.
Han's tenure has been defined by his centrist approach, often bridging divides in a polarized political landscape. His work under both liberal and conservative administrations has showcased his adaptability and broad appeal across party lines.
As acting president, Han must now restore public confidence in the government while managing the aftermath of Yoon's martial law declaration, which saw troops and helicopters deployed to the National Assembly on Dec. 3 before being canceled by parliamentary vote.
Han recently apologized for failing to prevent Yoon's declaration, saying he had opposed the measure during a Cabinet meeting before the announcement.
However, Han himself faces an investigation over his alleged role in the martial law crisis. If he were to be impeached, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok would assume the role of acting president.
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
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