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I wonder if there is still someone around here.

If there means that you are indicating something in the distance, why it is necessary to use it?

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In English, we use the word "there" in two different ways: as an adverb and as an expletive.

The italicized there in your first sentence is an expletive. As an expletive, there does not indicate a location as it does when used as an adverb. Think of the expletive there as meaning the existence or presence of something. Also note that it typically occurs with some form of be: There is/are..., There was/were, etc.

(expletive there with "be" verb) There is a problem with this computer. A problem exists with this computer.

(adverbial "locational" there) I went to Tokyo last month. I saw many people there. I saw many people in that place.

For some additional explanation and examples, check here.

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    I'd put there is bold instead of just there: the there is is the expression that means the existence or presence of something.
    – András Hummer
    Commented Jan 27, 2015 at 9:07
  • Good point, since it partners up with the "be" copula. I'll make the edit.
    – pyobum
    Commented Jan 27, 2015 at 9:10
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In this case, "there" is not something at a distance (I think you are thinking of "asoko" in Japanese), rather it refers to something that exists.

There is explanation and examples of this usage here: http://www.grammar.cl/Present/ThereIsThereAre.htm

(^^^^ see how I used it up there?)

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