Soccer Chief Says He Will Run for President

South Korean soccer chief Chung Mong Jun, a lawmaker and wealthy son of the founder of the Hyundai conglomerate, said today that he would formally announce his presidential candidacy, ending months of anticipation.

Chung, 50, a four-term member of the National Assembly and telegenic president of the Korea Football Assn., has seen his popularity rise since South Korea’s success as a co-host of the World Cup and the national team’s performance in the finals in May and June. His formal declaration is expected Sept. 17.