Presidential AI Aide Resigns to Run for Parliament

In a significant political development, Ha Jeong-woo, the Senior Secretary for AI Future Planning at the Presidential Office, has tendered his resignation. This move signals his imminent entry into electoral politics, with expectations high that he will soon declare his candidacy for the upcoming by-election in the Busan Buk-gap constituency. The timing is strategic, occurring just a week before the April 4th deadline for public officials seeking to run in the June 3rd by-elections, as mandated by the Public Official Election Act.

Sources within the Presidential Office confirmed Ha's resignation submission. His departure comes shortly after he attended a meeting with Demis Hassabis, co-founder and CEO of Google DeepMind, alongside President Lee. It is widely anticipated that President Lee will promptly approve Ha's resignation, allowing him to formally launch his campaign. The Democratic Party is reportedly planning an official welcoming ceremony around April 29th, underscoring their support for Ha's political aspirations.

Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung played a pivotal role in persuading Ha to transition from his role in technology policy to the political arena. Lee reportedly met with Ha for dinner, engaging in a lengthy discussion about Ha's potential contribution to advancing AI policies through legislative means. Lee expressed optimism, stating, "I persuaded him to come to the National Assembly to complete the design of the top three AI powers through legislation. I think he made his final decision overnight. I believe we will be able to deliver good news to you all." This suggests a strategic move by the Democratic Party to leverage Ha's expertise in AI to bolster their platform and appeal to voters.

The Busan Buk-gap constituency is already shaping up to be a closely watched race. Ha Jeong-woo will be competing against notable figures such as former People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon, who is running as an independent, and former Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs Park Min-sik, representing the People Power Party. Meanwhile, another presidential aide, Jeon Eun-soo, the spokesperson, has also resigned, likely to contest the by-election in Asan, which became vacant due to the resignation of Kang Hoon-sik. This wave of resignations from key presidential office positions highlights the intense political maneuvering underway ahead of the upcoming elections.

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I persuaded him to come to the National Assembly to complete the design of the top three AI powers through legislation. I think he made his final decision overnight. I believe we will be able to deliver good news to you all.