Ex-South Korean presidential contender won't take PM post

Ahn Cheol-soo avoids uphill confirmation battle to ease presidential transition

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Ahn Cheol-soo was a rival candidate for president before withdrawing from the race to support Yoon Suk-yeol. © Pool photo/Reuters

YOSUKE ONCHI, Nikkei staff writer

SEOUL -- Ahn Cheol-soo, a former rival turned ally who now leads the transition team for South Korean President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol, said Wednesday that he will not serve as prime minister for the incoming administration.

Ahn originally was a candidate in the March 9 presidential election before dropping out to back Yoon. Speculation suggested that Ahn could receive a key post in the new administration, which launches May 10, for his contribution to Yoon's victory in the tight race.

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