Liberal candidate drops out of South Korean presidential race From Paula Hancocks, CNN Ahn Cheol-Soo, an independent presidential candidate pictured here on November 21, 2012 in Seoul, South Korea. Ahn Cheol-soo had been working with Moon Jae-in to merge their bids "From now on, Moon Jae-in is the single liberal candidate," Ahn says Moon will face governing party candidate Park Geun-hye next month Seoul, South Korea (CNN) -- South Korean presidential candidate Ahn Cheol-soo announced Friday that he is dropping out of the race, clearing the way for fellow left-leaning hopeful Moon Jae-in to face Park Geun-hye, the candidate for the governing Saenuri Party. Ahn had been working with Moon, of the Democratic United Party, to merge their presidential bids ahead of next month's election, but the two had failed to reach an agreement. "I am giving up my presidential candidacy," South Korean news agency Yonhap quoted Ahn as saying. From now on, Moon Jae-in is the single liberal candidate. The race will determine who will lead South Korea, a key U.S. ally in Asia, for the next five years amid long-running tensions with the unpredictable, nuclear-armed North. Both Park and Moon are expected to pursue a more conciliatory line toward North Korea than Lee, who took an uncompromising approach to dealings with Pyongyang. Read more: South Korean military embarrassed after defector from North knocks on door Some claim he was a dictator who stifled opposition; others credit him with overseeing a key phase of South Korea's economic development. Ahn, who founded an anti-virus software company, had gained popularity for his criticism of the large South Korean conglomerates, known as "chaebols." CNN's KJ Kwon contributed to this report. November 23, 2012 -- Updated 1157 GMT (1957 HKT) As economic growth has turned China into the world's second largest economy, the environment suffered. Result: China's water shortages. November 23, 2012 -- Updated 1240 GMT (2040 HKT) Palestinian Authority renewed calls for unity with their after the latest conflict, but the fighting may have left Hamas with the upper hand. November 23, 2012 -- Updated 1139 GMT (1939 HKT) Only innovation can reduce illness and poverty in Africa, according to a program that is funding creative approaches to healthcare in developing world. November 22, 2012 -- Updated 1702 GMT (0102 HKT) Through sports, Scott Strode was able to overcome his addiction to drugs and alcohol. He now gives back to the community. November 23, 2012 -- Updated 1032 GMT (1832 HKT) A toy helicopter controlled by nothing but brainwaves could be available to the public just in time to hover under this year's Christmas tree. November 23, 2012 -- Updated 1212 GMT (2012 HKT) With her doe eyes, razor-sharp cheek bones and flowing jet black locks, it's no wonder she's on the cover of the most prestigious fashion magazine.