Seoul, Sept 17: Rich and powerful South Korean soccer chief Chung Mong-joon announced on Tuesday he would run for the country's presidency and form a new party to campaign for political reform in the December election. Chung has placed first or second in recent opinion polls, building on popularity gained through co-hosting with Japan June's World Cup finals in which South Korea finished fourth and drew global attention because of enthusiastic "Red Devil" fans.
"Many sleepless nights I asked myself whether I am truly qualified and capable of becoming the president of Korea," he said, announcing his bid at the National Assembly parliament complex in Seoul. "Now I have decided."

He said that he was surprised by his poll showing.
"The results of the current polls show us that people are tired of current politics and that they are disappointed with things as they are," Chung said, adding he would unveil his policy platform when he launches a new political party.

Although the announcement had been widely signalled in advance, it was significant because it places him more firmly under public and political scrutiny. Bureau Report