AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

SONG SEUNG HYUN
  • Ruling Party Emphasizes Local Elections as Support for Lees Administration
    Ruling Party Emphasizes Local Elections as Support for Lee's Administration The Democratic Party emphasized on May 22 that the upcoming June 3 local elections are crucial for supporting the administration of President Lee Jae-myung and judging the ineffective local governments of the People Power Party. They also questioned why candidates Oh Se-hoon and Kim Du-gyeom, who have recently faced allegations of missing rebar and involvement in a private organization, are so vocal in their campaigns. During a press briefing at the National Assembly, Secretary General Cho Seung-rae stated, "It has already been two days since the official election campaign began. As the local elections progress, there are inquiries about the nature of this election." He explained, "This election is taking place in the first year of President Lee Jae-myung's administration. It holds significance in terms of how we will support the president's governance from the central government down to the local level." Cho added, "While the first political judgment against insurrection forces was made during the last presidential election, we must now carry out a secondary judgment through these local elections. In the previous local elections, 12 regional heads from the People Power Party were elected. This election also serves to judge the ineffective local leaders from the People Power Party who only engage in negative campaigning." He continued to express concerns regarding Oh and Kim, who have been embroiled in controversies over the recent allegations of missing rebar in the GTX-A project and accusations of profiting through a private organization. Cho criticized Oh's response to the rebar allegations, stating, "This is a clear example of incompetence, showing that he is neglecting critical municipal management duties as the mayor of Seoul. His complacent attitude, suggesting that 'nothing has happened, so it’s not a concern,' is even more serious." Cho emphasized that preparing for various disasters is one of the primary responsibilities of local leaders, questioning, "How can Oh be so vocal when he is failing to fulfill such an important duty?" Regarding Kim, who faces allegations of assaulting a journalist, Cho stated, "He lacks the qualifications to hold public office. Public officials should not evade questions posed by the media on behalf of the public. Kim must clearly apologize for the violent incident."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 18:12:52
  • Jung Cheong-rae Calls for Apology from Shinsegae Chairman and Lawmaker Over Starbucks Controversy
    Jung Cheong-rae Calls for Apology from Shinsegae Chairman and Lawmaker Over Starbucks Controversy Jung Cheong-rae, the chairman of the Democratic Party, has called on Shinsegae Group Chairman Shin Yong-jin and People Power Party floor leader Song Eon-seok to "kneel and apologize" regarding the ongoing controversy surrounding Starbucks Korea's "Tank Day." He also announced plans to propose a strengthened version of the 5·18 special law. During a meeting of the election campaign committee in Cheongju on May 22, Jung stated, "There must never be a denial of history or an insult and mockery of human dignity, which is a universal value. Starbucks and Shin Yong-jin must once again kneel and sincerely apologize to the public. Apologize before the boycott of Starbucks spreads from Gwangju." Jung continued to express his discontent towards Song, who recently sparked controversy with comments suggesting he would not visit Gwangju because it was "dirty." In a recent press conference, Jung remarked, "No matter how I hear it, it sounds like 'I won't go because it's dirty.' Is he testing the hearing of the entire nation?" He criticized Song for threatening legal action after Jung posted about the comments on Facebook, saying, "He should either take legal action or apologize; he must do one or the other." Jung also pointed out that the People Power Party has yet to apologize for the state of emergency and is engaging in what he termed a "rebellious nomination" by calling for a return to the past. He warned that the public would deliver a stern judgment and urged them to apologize before it is too late. Regarding the 5·18 Gwangju Democratization Movement, Jung indicated that he would propose an amendment to the special law that would penalize not only the dissemination of false information but also mockery and insults related to the democratization movement. He stated, "President Lee Jae-myung is also strongly addressing Starbucks' belittlement of the 5·18 movement. Therefore, I am adding provisions to punish defamation due to the dissemination of false information and mockery and insults against the democratization movement. I will ensure that this amendment passes in the National Assembly immediately after the June 3 local elections."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 16:48:58
  • Democratic Party Forms Task Force to Investigate Allegations of Missing Rebar in GTX-A Project
    Democratic Party Forms Task Force to Investigate Allegations of Missing Rebar in GTX-A Project The Democratic Party has established a task force to thoroughly investigate recent allegations regarding missing rebar in the GTX-A line, holding its first meeting on May 22. The party has indicated that there are signs suggesting Oh Se-hoon, the candidate from the People Power Party, attempted to cover up the issue. Led by Cheon Jun-ho, the task force includes members such as Han Jeong-ae, Lee Joo-hee, Choi Gi-sang, Jeon Yong-gi, Lee Hae-sik, and Park Min-kyu. During a press conference at the National Assembly, they claimed that the Seoul city government was aware of the missing rebar but made organized efforts to conceal it. One lawmaker stated, "The recent inquiries by the Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee have clearly revealed the responsibility of the Seoul city government, yet candidate Oh continues to remain evasive. This highlights the extreme irresponsibility of Oh and the People Power Party, who are indifferent to public safety. The Democratic Party will thoroughly investigate this matter to the end." Cheon also remarked, "An unbelievable incident has occurred in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul. Allegations are growing that the city government concealed information from the construction company for six months after receiving reports. We need to verify the circumstances surrounding this prolonged concealment and the continuation of construction without validated reinforcement measures." He emphasized that both Oh and the Seoul city government must provide clear explanations regarding the delays in reporting, the timing of Oh's awareness of the missing rebar, and the controversy over the delayed reports to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport aimed at protecting Oh. Additionally, the Democratic Party outlined plans for regular task force meetings and inquiries in the National Assembly's standing committees moving forward. Cheon concluded, "We must clarify the facts and fully disclose the materials to discuss how to resolve this situation with experts. Additional meetings are planned around the upcoming full meeting of the Administrative Safety Committee on May 26. The task force is also continuing to request materials from the Seoul city government and related agencies."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 16:36:55
  • Jung Cheong-rae Promises Support for Chungbuks Growth Ahead of Local Elections
    Jung Cheong-rae Promises Support for Chungbuk's Growth Ahead of Local Elections Jung Cheong-rae, the head of the Democratic Party, pledged on May 22 to maximize growth potential in Chungbuk by supporting the establishment of a private runway at Cheongju International Airport, the construction of the Gangho Axis railway network, and the implementation of basic income for rural areas ahead of the June 3 local elections. He also announced the formation of a task force (TF) led by lawmaker Im Ho-seon to ensure the swift realization of these commitments. During a central election campaign committee meeting held in Cheongju, Jung stated, "The Democratic Party will spare no effort in supporting Chungbuk. I am here with the determination to fulfill any request from Chungbuk." He emphasized the immediate pursuit of the Gangho Axis railway network and the private runway at Cheongju International Airport, which were requested by lawmakers representing Chungbuk. "The Gangho Axis is crucial for balanced national development. The runway request has been made multiple times by Chungbuk lawmakers visiting my office," he explained. Jung further noted, "Chungbuk lawmakers have worked hard to secure basic income for rural areas. The party leadership has recognized that this is not just a local issue but a party-wide concern, and we have worked to address it as Chungbuk desired." To ensure the prompt implementation of these pledges, Jung announced the establishment of a task force centered around Chungbuk lawmakers, which will provide institutional and financial support. He added, "To fully support the pledges made by the Democratic Party's candidates for Chungbuk governor and Cheongju mayor, we will have Chungbuk lawmakers form a TF to organize laws, regulations, and budgets. Im will lead the pledge implementation team, and the other lawmakers will participate as members."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 16:22:15
  • Democratic Party Demands Resignation of Incheon Mayor Candidate Over Crypto Allegations
    Democratic Party Demands Resignation of Incheon Mayor Candidate Over Crypto Allegations The Democratic Party on May 21 publicly demanded the resignation of Yoo Jeong-bok, the People Power Party's candidate for Incheon mayor, following the release of recordings that suggest he may have concealed virtual assets. The party also indicated plans to file a complaint against him. During a press conference at the National Assembly, lawmakers representing Incheon, including Heo Jong-sik, Noh Jong-myeon, Park Sun-won, and Lee Hoon-ki, unveiled recordings involving an individual identified as A, who is believed to have managed Yoo's virtual assets, and Yoo's spouse, Choi. According to Noh, the recordings indicate that during Yoo's tenure as mayor in April 2024, A and Choi discussed how to handle asset declarations, including a suggestion to receive virtual assets through the overseas exchange Binance. He further revealed an additional recording, likely made in December 2024, stating, "It is presumed that virtual assets were maintained in an overseas account from April to December. Yoo's claim of 'managing his brother's money' lacks credibility." Lee added, "Despite the obligation to disclose virtual assets for public officials established in 2023, Yoo failed to report accurately and misled the public with flimsy lies. Immediate compulsory investigations should be conducted, and Yoo must apologize and resign from his candidacy." The Democratic Party also mentioned that the campaign for Incheon mayor candidate Park Chan-dae is considering additional legal actions, including a formal complaint. Noh stated, "The campaign's complaint is expected to be filed on May 22. We have been verifying the matter and reviewing legal actions."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 20:27:00
  • Official Campaigns Kick Off for Local Elections in South Korea
    Official Campaigns Kick Off for Local Elections in South Korea On May 21, the official campaign period for the local elections began, with both major parties launching aggressive efforts to win over voters. Jung Cheong-rae, leader of the Democratic Party, and Jang Dong-hyuk, leader of the People Power Party, focused their strategies on the Chungcheong region, known for its pivotal role as a 'casting vote' in local elections. The Democratic Party emphasized that this election is crucial for preventing the People Power Party's controversial nominations and for leading the country towards normalization under the Lee Jae-myung administration. Jung highlighted the importance of this election as a 'golden time' for the nation. Jung began his campaign at midnight at a rally for Seoul mayoral candidate Jung Won-oh, visiting key battlegrounds in Gyeonggi, Gongju, Daejeon, and Cheonan to attract moderate voters. At a rally for candidate Ryu Sam-young in the Dongjak District, Jung stated, "As seen in the recent nominations by the People Power Party, those who still support internal conflict are oblivious to the need for reflection. I ask you to judge these forces by voting for us." In the afternoon, during a campaign event in Gongju with candidates Park Soo-hyun for Chungnam governor and Kim Jeong-seop for Gongju mayor, Jung expressed gratitude to the residents for overcoming internal conflict and urged them not to give a single vote to the People Power Party, asking them to support the Democratic Party instead. Conversely, the People Power Party concentrated its efforts in the Chungcheong region, which includes Jang's constituency, arguing that if the Democratic Party wins the local elections, it would lead to a one-party dictatorship alongside the Lee Jae-myung administration. At a rally for Daejeon mayoral candidate Lee Jang-woo, Jang declared, "If the Democratic Party, which has seized legislative power, also wins local governments, South Korea will become a one-party dictatorship. The People Power Party aims to protect democracy and the future of our nation from Daejeon." In Gongju, where candidates Kim Tae-heum for Chungnam governor and Choi Won-cheol for Gongju mayor campaigned, Jang continued to criticize the Democratic Party and President Lee Jae-myung. He claimed, "The president is attempting to halt his trial and initiate a special investigation. We must win in Chungnam and across the nation to hold the arrogant Democratic Party accountable." Notably, Jung and Jang crossed paths in front of the Gongju Sanseong Market during overlapping campaign schedules. As Jung passed by the People Power Party rally, Jang called out the names of their candidates, stating, "Just a moment ago, Jung Cheong-rae and the Democratic candidates walked by. I wanted them to hear this." Some supporters of the People Power Party shouted against Jung, but he smiled and waved at Jang as he left the rally.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 18:13:57
  • Negative Campaigning Dominates Upcoming Local Elections in South Korea
    Negative Campaigning Dominates Upcoming Local Elections in South Korea As the June 3 local elections approach in South Korea, the political climate in key battlegrounds is becoming increasingly contentious. Candidates are hitting the streets to meet voters, and political parties have mobilized their full support. It is natural for the intensity to rise as the election date nears, as democracy thrives on competition, and elections are the most visible manifestation of that competition. However, this local election is becoming overly focused on personal attacks and allegations against opponents rather than policy competition. Voters are eager to hear visions and plans for improving their communities, yet the campaign landscape is dominated by negative tactics aimed at exploiting the weaknesses of rival candidates. In critical areas like Seoul and Busan, emotional and aggressive exchanges are overshadowing policy debates. In the Seoul mayoral race, the People Power Party and the Democratic Party have been relentless in launching various allegations and controversies against each other. Issues such as personal life controversies, accountability for city governance, and allegations of construction material omissions are being raised, while serious discussions about how to improve citizens' lives are being pushed to the background. The conflict has escalated beyond individual candidates, with central party leadership joining the fray, transforming the local elections into a national political battleground. Since the official campaign began, party leaders have hurled strong accusations at each other, labeling opponents as "incompetent," "irresponsible," and questioning their "moral integrity." Each campaign is intensifying its attacks, leading to growing fatigue among voters. The Busan mayoral election is similarly contentious. During public debates, allegations of bribery involving the Unification Church and controversies over real estate profits have taken center stage, with candidates spending significant time attacking one another. The Incheon mayoral race is also marked by intensified clashes over allegations of hidden virtual assets, with discussions of potential legal actions surfacing. Across the country, elections are increasingly resembling exposés rather than policy debates. Additionally, there is concern over the rapid spread of unverified claims and sensational videos on social media platforms and YouTube during this election. In the past, candidate disputes primarily occurred in debates or official campaign events, but now, short edited videos and online posts are circulating in real-time, swaying public opinion. If the election devolves into a competition for views rather than a contest of policies and visions, the biggest victims will ultimately be the voters who need accurate information to make informed decisions. While scrutiny of candidates is necessary, as their morals, qualifications, and past actions are crucial factors in voters' decisions, it is not inherently problematic to raise allegations. However, if the focus remains solely on attacks and counterattacks, the election risks becoming a battle of emotions rather than a competition for the future. Local elections are fundamentally about issues closest to residents' lives, addressing matters such as transportation, housing, welfare, education, urban development, and safety. The focus should be on what kind of city to build, what kind of administration to implement, and what actions to take for youth, the elderly, and small businesses. Yet, voters are increasingly exposed to commentary and investigative articles attacking rival candidates rather than to platforms of promises. Politicians often claim they seek voters' choices. Therefore, they must first provide reasons for voters to choose them. Rather than fixating on undermining opponents, candidates should explain what they can offer. Elections should prioritize promises over attacks and policies over political strife to restore voter trust. As the election draws closer, the level of attacks is likely to escalate further. However, what voters will ultimately remember is not how much they attacked their opponents, but what promises they made for their communities and what visions they presented. This is why there is hope that this local election will remain a contest of policies rather than a competition of smear tactics. 2026-05-21 13:30:31
  • Ruling Party Targets Oh Se-hoon on First Day of Official Campaign
    Ruling Party Targets Oh Se-hoon on First Day of Official Campaign The Democratic Party launched a concentrated attack on Oh Se-hoon, the People Power Party candidate for Seoul mayor, on the first day of the official campaign period, demanding he "apologize to citizens" and asserting he is unfit for the position. The party also announced plans to investigate allegations regarding the omission of rebar in the GTX-A line, which has recently sparked controversy. Chun Jun-ho, the party's deputy floor leader, stated during a policy coordination meeting at the National Assembly, "Today, on the first day of the campaign, Oh must first apologize to citizens. Until he does, he has no right to campaign." He added, "The more he tries to explain the rebar omission, the clearer the signs of organized cover-up become." Chun criticized Oh for saying, "It wasn't an accident," claiming this statement has outraged citizens. He urged, "I appeal to the respected citizens of Seoul: please judge Oh, who disregards the lives and safety of the public." Ko Min-jeong, co-head of the Oh Se-hoon 10-Year Judgment Headquarters within the campaign committee, condemned Oh's perception that there is no issue since no accidents have occurred. She likened it to President Yoon Suk-yeol's assertion that deploying military forces to the National Assembly did not constitute a coup because nothing happened. Ko emphasized that Oh is gambling with the lives and safety of citizens for his election bid, stating, "He must kneel and apologize for deceiving the public about serious safety issues. A candidate who does not repent is unfit to run for mayor of Seoul." Additionally, Lee Joo-hee, the party's floor spokesperson, announced plans for a parliamentary inquiry into the allegations. After the policy coordination meeting, she told reporters, "On the 26th, there will be an urgent inquiry regarding the ongoing controversy in the Administrative Safety Committee. This is a matter directly related to the lives and safety of citizens. Although it is the campaign period, the leadership in the National Assembly will continue to investigate safety issues."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 12:36:21
  • Han Byeong-do Appeals for Support in Local Elections, Urges Voters to Choose Government Aligned with Lee Jae-myung
    Han Byeong-do Appeals for Support in Local Elections, Urges Voters to Choose Government Aligned with Lee Jae-myung Han Byeong-do, the floor leader of the Democratic Party, called for public support on May 21, the official start of the election campaign, urging voters to choose local governments that will work in tandem with the Lee Jae-myung administration. He also warned of severe consequences for actions that mock democracy, referencing recent controversies involving Starbucks and Musinsa. During a policy coordination meeting at the National Assembly, Han stated, "This local election will determine whether we will move towards national normalization with the capable Lee Jae-myung government or allow insurrectionist forces to gain ground." He recalled the events of December 3, 2024, when President Yoon Suk-yeol declared an illegal state of emergency, nearly undermining the remarkable achievements of South Korea. He emphasized that the Lee Jae-myung government was born from the sacrifices and dedication of citizens who voluntarily gathered in the National Assembly, proving its worth through results and capabilities that meet public expectations and trust. Han criticized the local governments formed by the People Power Party during Yoon's administration, describing them as epitomes of incompetence and irresponsibility. He asserted, "We must end the regression of the past four years in this election. A victory in the local elections is the path to national normalization and a great leap forward for South Korea." He also pointed out provocations from far-right groups, including Starbucks Korea's 'Tank Day' and performances mocking the late former President Roh Moo-hyun, as well as past insults to martyr Park Jong-cheol by Musinsa. Han remarked, "What distinguishes these actions from the insurrectionist forces of Yoon Suk-yeol, which committed crimes against the state and attempted to overthrow our democratic republic?" He concluded by announcing that the Democratic Party would swiftly establish relevant laws and systems to punish acts that mock and undermine the values of the Gwangju Democratization Movement and the democratic republic.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 12:31:03
  • Election Campaigns Kick Off for Local Elections in South Korea
    Election Campaigns Kick Off for Local Elections in South Korea The Democratic Party and the People Power Party launched their official election campaigns on May 21, kicking off active canvassing efforts. Jung Cheong-rae, the Democratic Party leader, focused on supporting Jeong Won-oh, the party's candidate for the Seoul mayoral election, while Jang Dong-hyuk targeted Yang Hyang-ja, who is vying to reclaim the Gyeonggi governor's office. Jung began his support for Jeong at the Dong Seoul Postal Center, where he emphasized delivering a new vision for Seoul that residents can feel. He participated in receiving policy proposals from the 25 districts of Seoul and engaged in sorting packages to encourage the postal workers. After the work concluded, Jung told reporters, "I want to deliver the future of Seoul to our descendants through this local election. I envision the changes and developments in Seoul, as Jeong demonstrated during his tenure as the Seongdong District mayor. I believe I am delivering Jeong Won-oh's victory." He added, "I want to deliver a bright and hopeful South Korea, where democracy shines, by eradicating the 12.3 emergency martial law and insurrection alongside the people on June 3." Conversely, Jang visited Yang's hunger strike site in Pyeongtaek, where he urged a compromise between labor and management at Samsung Electronics, focusing on the Gyeonggi region, which narrowly lost in the last local elections. Jang explained his choice to start his campaign at Yang's hunger strike site, stating, "I thought it would be good to begin the election campaign in a place where Yang is fighting desperately to prevent South Korea from coming to a standstill. I believe party members, supporters, and all citizens will remember and evaluate Yang's determination to undertake this hunger strike." He highlighted the recent provisional agreement reached between Samsung Electronics' labor and management on May 20, saying, "Yang has fought with the urgency that if the semiconductor industry stops, South Korea stops. I believe this agreement was reached because of her life-and-death struggle." Meanwhile, Oh Se-hoon and Choo Mi-ae, who are competing against Jeong and Yang in the Seoul mayoral and Gyeonggi gubernatorial races, respectively, also began their campaign activities. Oh visited the Garak-dong Agricultural and Fishery Wholesale Market, aiming to revitalize Seoul's economy, while Choo announced the start of her campaign at the Wolam Public Garage in Uiwang, Gyeonggi Province.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-21 01:04:05