Ahn Cheol-soo Officially Declares Candidacy for the 21st Presidential Election

Ahn Cheol-soo, a member of the National Power Party, will officially declare his candidacy for the 21st presidential election on the 8th.

According to Ahn's office and other sources on the 7th, Ahn is scheduled to hold a campaign launch event in front of the statue of General Yi Sun-sin at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul at 11 a.m. on the 8th.

Regarding the choice of Gwanghwamun Square for the launch event, a representative from Ahn's camp told SBS, "We chose Gwanghwamun Square with the hope of national unity and a change of era, intending to come together in the square again."

They also emphasized the significant symbolism in that General Yi Sun-sin is a hero who saved the country in times of crisis, adding, "We intend to embody the spirit of national salvation."

Ahn's declaration of candidacy comes as the first among the major figures in the National Power Party following the impeachment of former President Yoon Seok-youl on the 4th.

Previously, Ahn had opposed the emergency martial law declared by President Yoon and expressed support for impeachment.

Meanwhile, Ahn, a four-term member of the National Assembly, is running for president for the fourth time, starting with the 18th presidential election in 2012.

Notably, in the 2022 presidential election, he was evaluated for contributing to the election of former President Yoon after declaring unification just six days before the election following a tense standoff with Yoon.

Image source: Ahn Cheol-soo / News1, Statue of Yi Sun-sin in Gwanghwamun / Photo=Insight