South Korea’s acting leader Han Duck-soo steps down, eyes presidential campaign

Only the people's severe punishment awaits Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who is blind with greed and abandons state affairs,

party spokesperson Cho Seung-rae said

I apologize to the people that I am unable to continue my duties amid grave internal and external economic conditions,

Choi said in a statement released by the finance ministry

Choi's resignation has been notified. We are suspending the impeachment vote,

said National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik

Can't say he is too happy about this, it's some heavy responsibilities with no real power,

a senior finance ministry official said

Choi's two deputies will need to play the chief of foreign affairs and chief of economy and security, while his first vice finance minister would have no choice but to take more of Choi's ministerial role,

the ministry official said

I have two paths ahead of me. One is completing the heavy responsibility that I handle now. The other is putting down that responsibility and taking a heavier responsibility,

Han said

I've finally determined to put down my post to do what I can and what I have to help overcome the crises facing us,

the politician said

Fellow citizens, I have spent much time reflecting on what path would allow me to fulfill my responsibilities,

he said in the address