Hwang Kyo-ahn Officially Declares Presidential Bid: "We Must Restore Fallen Principles"

Former Future United Party (predecessor of the People Power Party) leader Hwang Kyo-ahn is declaring his presidential candidacy at the National Assembly on the 1st. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kum Boryeong] Hwang Kyo-ahn, former leader of the United Future Party (predecessor of the People Power Party), officially announced his presidential bid on the 1st.

On that day, Hwang held a press conference at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, stating, "I will begin the grand journey to achieve a top-tier normal country from now on," and announced, "I will run in the 20th presidential election next year."

He emphasized, "Our people are currently facing unprecedented, extraordinary difficulties. There is a demand for a new era of healing, recovery, and a fresh leap forward," adding, "We must restore the collapsed principles and rule of law."

Hwang continued, "Our people possess the world's best IT technology and digital mindset. If regulations are lifted and a fair, just, and free environment is created, they will demonstrate the capability to lead the future and the Fourth Industrial Revolution," and said, "I will take the lead on the path to becoming a top-tier normal country. I will devote everything I have and dedicate myself."

After declaring his candidacy, when asked by reporters why it should be Hwang Kyo-ahn, he replied, "Experience is needed, and a leader who understands the lives of the people is required at this time. As someone who has experienced the legislative, judicial, and executive branches, I know the path as a person responsible and have solutions," emphasizing, "In this crisis situation, I am needed, so I said I will fulfill that role. Drawing on my experience participating in legislation as party leader, I will take responsibility to normalize South Korea quickly and ensure the lives of the people are not difficult."

Regarding his statement at the book launch event for his recent book, Top-Tier Normal Country, on the 30th of last month, where he said, "The previous Hwang Kyo-ahn is dead," he explained, "The people did not give us many seats in last year's general election because we were lacking. I take full responsibility for that," adding, "However, we are on the great path of regime change, though not perfect. In that process, I must thoroughly correct my shortcomings and leverage my strengths to protect the people. In this regard, the past me is dead, and the changed me through reflection will pursue good policies and politics for the people."

Regarding Yoon Seok-youl, former Prosecutor General and the opposition's leading presidential candidate in approval ratings, Hwang insisted on the need for 'joining the party.' He said, "I believe the spirit of the times is regime change. If necessary, everyone must unite their efforts," adding, "In that sense, former Prosecutor General Yoon should join, former Board of Audit and Inspection Chairman Choi Jae-hyung should join, and together we should unite to achieve regime change, which I believe is for the people and the country."

When asked to evaluate former Prosecutor General Yoon, he responded, "I think the people will be the ones to judge a person," and said, "He has made great efforts to prevent the deterioration of prosecution disguised as prosecution reform, and because of that, he is receiving support from the people. From that perspective, I evaluate him positively."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.