The former prime minister of South Korea and acting president, Han-Duck-soo on Friday announced he would run for president in next month's snap presidential election.

Conservative Han had hinted that he sought more responsibility when he resigned as acting president on Thursday.

Han pledges to do his 'utmost' for South Korea

"For the future of the Republic of Korea, a country I deeply love, and for all of us, I have decided to do what I can," Han said in a televised speech on Friday.

"I will do my utmost to be chosen by our people in this presidential election," Han said.

While also being prime minister during Yoon Suk Yeol's administration, Han held the position under the presidency of Roh Moo-hyun from 2007 to 2008.

He has also served as trade minister, finance minister and ambassador to the US.

Han does not belong to a political party and his entry now warms up the race among conservatives as they seek to present a united front as they face-off with Democratic Party frontrunner Lee Jae-myung.

On Thursday, Lee's campaign took a hit when the Supreme Court overturned a lower court's decision to acquit Lee on charges of election law violation.

If a lower court also finds Lee guilty, he would be barred from running for office for five years and might even face a prison sentence.

New acting president promises stability

Meanwhile, South Korea's new acting President Lee-Ju-ho on Friday said that he would ensure government stability and that the June 3 election would be conducted fairly.

Lee took over the acting leadership role following Han's resignation.

"I believe the government administration operates under a system. I will try my best to ensure government functions are managed stably," Lee told reporters.

Edited by: Rana Taha