AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

Song Seung-hyun
  • June 3 Local Elections: People Power Party Dominates Yeongnam and Seoul, While Democrats Sweep Most of Gyeonggi
    June 3 Local Elections: People Power Party Dominates Yeongnam and Seoul, While Democrats Sweep Most of Gyeonggi In the June 3 local elections, the Democratic Party secured victories in most regions, extending its control from the central government to local administrations, thereby accelerating the implementation of President Lee Jae-myung's policies. Conversely, the People Power Party's campaign theme of 'checking the government' did not resonate as expected, resulting in the loss of local government power to the Democrats. However, they achieved a satisfactory outcome by winning in Seoul, often referred to as the centerpiece of local elections. In Seoul, the most competitive battleground and the highlight of the local elections, Democratic candidate Jung Won-o was unable to overcome the challenge posed by People Power Party's Oh Se-hoon, ultimately losing the race. Nonetheless, the Democratic Party celebrated victories in key areas such as Gyeonggi, Busan, and Gangwon. Notably, Democratic candidate Lee Jae-myung in Gyeonggi quickly established a lead over the People Power Party's Yang Hyang-ja, securing a decisive win. In addition, Democratic candidates Jeon Jae-soo, Woo Sang-ho, and Park Chan-dae confirmed victories against People Power Party candidates Park Hyung-jun, Kim Jin-tae, and Yoo Jeong-bok in Busan, Gangwon, and Incheon, respectively, reinforcing their strength in the metropolitan area. The Democratic Party also reported victories in the traditionally strong Honam and Jeju regions. In North Jeolla, Democratic candidate Lee Won-taek fended off a challenge from independent candidate Kim Kwan-young to secure a win. In Gwangju and Jeonnam, Democratic candidate Min Hyung-bae achieved a significant victory over People Power Party's Lee Jung-hyun. In Jeju, Democratic candidate Wi Seong-gon also won decisively against People Power Party's Moon Seong-yu. The People Power Party managed to secure victories only in Yeongnam, a region known for its conservative base, excluding Seoul. In North Gyeongsang and South Gyeongsang, People Power Party candidates Lee Cheol-woo and Park Wan-soo won against Democratic candidates Oh Jung-ki and Kim Kyung-soo, maintaining their reputation. In Daegu, often called the heart of conservatism, People Power Party candidate Choo Kyung-ho narrowly defeated Democratic candidate Kim Boo-kyum. In the by-elections held concurrently with the local elections, the Democratic Party continued its dominance. Out of 14 contested seats, the Democratic Party won in nine regions, excluding those won by People Power Party and independent candidate Han Dong-hoon. However, the Democratic Party faced disappointing losses in areas where they were expected to maintain control, resulting in a bittersweet victory in the by-elections following the local elections. In the highly contested districts of Busan Buk-gu Gap and Gyeonggi Pyeongtaek, Democratic candidates Ha Jeong-woo and Kim Yong-nam both lost. In Ulsan Nam-gu Gap, Democratic candidate Jeon Tae-jin was defeated by People Power Party's Kim Tae-kyu. Initially, Busan Buk-gu Gap was expected to be a fierce contest with People Power Party candidate Park Min-sik and others participating, but the Democratic candidate managed to secure victory in the end. In Gyeonggi Pyeongtaek, a tight three-way race emerged between Justice Party's Jo Guk, People Power Party's Yoo Ui-dong, and the Democratic candidate, with Yoo ultimately winning. In Chungnam Gongju, Buyeo, Cheongyang, and Ulsan Nam-gu Gap, People Power Party candidates Yun Yong-geun and Kim Tae-kyu successfully turned the tide against Democratic candidates Kim Young-bin and Jeon Tae-jin, reclaiming their districts. As a result, the Democratic Party secured victories in Incheon Yeonsu Gap (Song Young-gil), Incheon Gyeyang (Kim Nam-jun), Gwangju Gwangsan (Lim Mun-young), Gyeonggi Ansan Gap (Kim Nam-guk), Gyeonggi Hanam Gap (Lee Kwang-jae), Chungnam Asan (Jeon Eun-soo), North Jeolla Gunsan, Gimje, and Buan Gap (Kim Ui-gyeom), North Jeolla Gunsan, Gimje, and Buan (Park Ji-won), and Jeju Seogwipo (Kim Seong-beom), but the promise made by leader Jeong Cheong-rae to secure '13 districts' fell short.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-04 09:39:00
  • Democratic Party Expresses Strong Regret Over Election Commissions Ballot Shortage
    Democratic Party Expresses Strong Regret Over Election Commission's Ballot Shortage The Democratic Party expressed strong regret on June 3 over the ballot shortage controversy involving the National Election Commission (NEC), warning that it would hold the commission accountable for its social responsibilities regardless of the election outcome. However, the party dismissed the opposition's calls for a re-vote in the Seoul mayoral election and for halting the counting of votes as "not worth considering." Cho Seung-rae, the party's secretary-general, stated during a press conference that while he acknowledged the NEC's apology, he believed it would be difficult to convince the public. He emphasized that the NEC must be held accountable for its inadequate management of the ballots. "We must hold the NEC accountable regardless of the election results," Cho said. "This is not a matter that can be resolved with an apology. We will definitely hold them responsible for poor election management." He further commented on the opposition's claims regarding the re-vote and vote counting halt, stating, "There is no value in considering such actions. However, we will hold the NEC accountable for its inadequate election management." Cho also expressed confidence that the NEC would conduct the remaining elections normally, stating, "I believe the voting will proceed as planned since the NEC has managed all other elections properly. We will observe how the NEC and the opposition proceed with any additional measures." Regarding voters who abandoned their ballots due to the shortage, he remarked, "It is not appropriate to assess each individual case. Interpreting and responding to individual situations would be inappropriate."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-03 22:30:00
  • Democratic Party Claims Exit Polls Reflect Support for Lee Jae-myungs Government
    Democratic Party Claims Exit Polls Reflect Support for Lee Jae-myung's Government The Democratic Party reported that exit polls from the June 3 local elections indicated strong support in 11 out of 16 metropolitan areas, stating, "This reflects the public's expectation for local governments to work towards the success of the Lee Jae-myung administration." After the exit poll results were released, Han Byeong-do, the party's floor leader, appeared on Yonhap News TV and said, "I urged the creation of effective local governments to ensure the success of the Lee Jae-myung administration. I believe these expectations have been significantly reflected in the results." Regarding competitive regions, he added, "It is difficult to predict the outcomes, but the overall trend shows support for this government and reflects the expectation for capable local administrations. We are hopeful for victories." Lee Yeon-hee, who served as the chair of the strategic planning committee for the local elections, spoke to reporters after the exit poll announcement, stating, "I believe this predictive survey confirms public sentiment supporting President Lee's national stability. We have verified the public's desire for stability in governance, particularly in the competitive Yeongnam region, and we anticipate positive results." The exit poll results, released around 6 p.m. on the same day by three major broadcasters (KBS, MBC, SBS), indicated that the Democratic Party is leading in 11 regions (Seoul, Gyeonggi, Incheon, Chungbuk, Chungnam, Daejeon, Sejong, Jeonnam, Gwangju, Jeju, Gyeongnam, Ulsan), while the People Power Party is leading in one region (Gyeongbuk), with four regions (Busan, Daegu, Gangwon, Jeonbuk) considered competitive.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-03 19:33:00
  • Chois Party Confident in Pyeongtaek Election Lead, Choi Urges Patience
    Choi's Party Confident in Pyeongtaek Election Lead, Choi Urges Patience The Choi Innovation Party expressed confidence in the lead of candidate Choi in the Pyeongtaek by-election, stating, "We have no doubt he will win." However, Choi himself urged caution, saying, "Let’s wait calmly until the final results are announced." At around 6 p.m. on June 3, the exit polls from three major broadcasters (KBS, MBC, SBS) indicated that Choi was leading in Pyeongtaek, prompting cheers from supporters. Seo Wang-jin, the party's floor leader, and Lee Hae-min, the secretary-general, were seen wiping away tears of joy. After the exit poll results were released, Choi met with supporters at his campaign office, expressing gratitude for their efforts: "You have worked hard for a long time. Thank you." However, Choi cautioned, "While the exit poll results are out, it doesn’t seem like the time to celebrate yet. We need to wait calmly and patiently. I appreciate your support and ask you to wait until the final results come in." In an interview with KBS, Seo remarked, "Choi has been competing fiercely between the two major parties. It has been a challenging situation, but I believe he has created a strong momentum for victory at the end. Although we are in a competitive situation now, I have no doubt we will ultimately win."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-03 19:12:00
  • Jeong Cheong-rae Urges Voter Participation in Local Elections
    Jeong Cheong-rae Urges Voter Participation in Local Elections Jeong Cheong-rae, the leader of the Democratic Party, emphasized the importance of voting on June 3, stating that each vote represents a right secured through the blood and sweat of many citizens. He urged voters to actively participate and help democracy flourish. Jeong highlighted instances in previous local elections where candidates won by a tie in votes or by a single vote, reiterating his call for citizens to head to the polls. During a meeting of the Central Election Countermeasures Committee held at the National Assembly, Jeong remarked, "Today is the day when the people, the true owners of the country, decide the future of our regions and South Korea. Today's democracy is built on the efforts of citizens who fought for and protected their right to vote." He added, "The first general election in 1948 laid the foundation for our democratic republic. Citizens took to the streets to reclaim their votes stolen in the March 15 rigged election and fought against military dictatorship during the June Democratic Uprising to achieve direct elections. The vote we cast today is a right preserved through the sacrifices and dedication of countless citizens. Since elections are the flower of democracy, I hope everyone participates to make that flower bloom brightly." Jeong further emphasized that there have been cases in electoral history where identical vote counts or results decided by a single vote occurred, urging voters to exercise their precious right at the polls. "My vote can change the elected official, local policies, and the future of our community. This is not just a cliché politicians say during elections," he explained. "In the past six local elections, there have been seven instances where candidates were elected with the same number of votes, and 13 cases where results were determined by a single vote." He concluded, "The weight of your vote is never light. I earnestly ask you to come to the polls with a sense of urgency that your candidate may be one vote short. Please show through your vote who the true owners of South Korea are and choose the path our country should take."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-03 10:27:00
  • Jung Won-oh Holds Final Campaign Rally in Cheonggye Plaza
    Jung Won-oh Holds Final Campaign Rally in Cheonggye Plaza On June 2, Jung Won-oh, the Democratic Party's candidate for Seoul mayor, held his final campaign rally, where supporters arrived early to show their backing. As Jung and Democratic Party leader Jung Cheong-rae appeared, the crowd erupted in cheers and applause, reaffirming their determination for victory in the June 3 local elections. Supporters began gathering at Cheonggye Plaza around 6 PM, two hours before the rally officially started, displaying blue balloons and signs reading "New Era" while taking photos with family and friends in anticipation of Jung's arrival. An hour before Jung's arrival, a video showcasing highlights from his campaign was played, marking the official start of the rally. As the event emcee, Representative Lee Jeong-heon, asked the crowd if they would unite to vote for the Seoul mayoral election the next day, supporters responded with enthusiastic shouts of "Yes" and "Jung Won-oh." Several lawmakers from Jung's campaign, including Lee In-young, Park Joo-min, Seo Young-kyo, Kim Young-bae, Kim Young-ho, Han Jeong-ae, Seo Mi-hwa, Kim Yoon, Choi Gi-sang, Lee Joo-hee, and Nam In-soon, took the stage to rally support for Jung. As Lee In-young, Park Joo-min, and Seo Young-kyo urged the crowd to "punish Oh Se-hoon" and called for accountability for his actions, supporters responded by chanting Jung's name and applauding. At approximately 8:32 PM, when Jung arrived at the rally alongside Jung Cheong-rae, supporters welcomed him with even louder chants and cheers. When Jung asked the crowd, "Who should we change (as mayor of Seoul)?" they shouted "Jung Won-oh" three times in unison, expressing their support. During the rally, Lee Jeong-heon encouraged the crowd to respond, and they continued to chant Jung's name and cheer. Jung also targeted Oh Se-hoon, questioning his approval ratings and whether it was acceptable to obstruct President Lee Jae-myung, prompting the crowd to shout, "It's at rock bottom. We cannot forgive him." As Jung concluded his speech around 8:50 PM, lasting approximately 18 minutes, supporters chanted his name, applauded, and sang the national anthem up to the fourth verse before dispersing.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 21:48:00
  • Jung Cheong-rae: I Did My Best with a Heart to Move Heaven... Now, I Will Encourage Voting
    Jung Cheong-rae: 'I Did My Best with a Heart to Move Heaven... Now, I Will Encourage Voting' Jung Cheong-rae, the leader of the Democratic Party, reflected on his campaign efforts on June 2, stating, "I have done my best with a heart to move heaven," just one day before the June 3 local elections. He characterized this election as pivotal for resolving insurrection and shaping the future of South Korea, urging voters to participate.After the conclusion of a rally supporting candidate Jung Won-oh at Cheonggye Plaza in Seoul, Jung told reporters, "The official campaign is now heading toward its final destination. I have worked hard to do everything I could and have given my all."He added, "I have moved with a heart to move heaven. I will spend tonight with the mindset of doing my best and will encourage voters to cast their ballots through legal means on June 3, when campaigning is prohibited."Jung emphasized the importance of this local election in supporting President Lee Jae-myung and eliminating the remnants of insurrection, stating that South Korea must move toward a brighter future.He remarked, "This election is about empowering President Lee and clearing away the remnants of insurrection to advance toward the future of South Korea. The Democratic Party has done its utmost, and we await the people's judgment."Additionally, Jung announced plans to boost voter turnout in key battleground areas, where close races are expected. He said, "In competitive regions, the outcome could be decided by a narrow margin. Therefore, we must encourage voting tomorrow. Ultimately, we need as many people as possible to come out. I will promote voter turnout through legal means to the best of my ability." 2026-06-02 21:33:00
  • Jung Won-oh Urges Voters to Choose a Mayor Who Keeps Promises
    Jung Won-oh Urges Voters to Choose a Mayor Who Keeps Promises Jung Won-oh, the Democratic Party candidate for Seoul mayor, encouraged voters on June 2 during his final campaign rally, stating, "Please elect a mayor who not only talks but also takes action and keeps promises." He specifically targeted Oh Se-hoon, the candidate from the People Power Party, questioning, "Does a candidate who neglects safety deserve to be mayor?" At the rally held in Seoul's Cheonggye Plaza, Jung urged citizens to participate in the upcoming vote on June 3, saying, "By voting, you can choose a Seoul that will succeed alongside President Lee Jae-myung. We can create a Seoul where the dreams of young people are revived, a city that becomes a bucket list destination for people around the world." He emphasized the need for a mayor who delivers results and keeps commitments, urging attendees to ensure their friends and family vote, saying, "Think of it as if we are just three votes short and make sure to get everyone to vote." Jung also criticized Oh for the recent allegations regarding missing rebar in the GTX-A line, highlighting Oh's negligence regarding safety and his failure to fulfill housing and economic promises. "Protecting life and safety is the most precious and fundamental duty. A candidate who neglects safety does not deserve to be mayor," Jung stated. He added, "Just as I made Seongdong safe, I will ensure that Seoul becomes the safest city. Choose someone who will create a safe Seoul." He pointed out that if Oh had kept his promise to supply 80,000 housing units annually, the housing crisis would have been resolved. "A candidate who does not keep promises must be replaced," Jung asserted. Jung noted that Seoul's economic growth rate ranks 11th among the 17 cities and provinces in the country, stating, "The economy in Seoul is dying in every alley. I transformed Seongdong, once an old industrial area, into a global attraction, creating jobs and revitalizing the economy." He argued that the next mayor of Seoul should be from the ruling party to work alongside President Lee for the city's development. Jung concluded by questioning, "Can we just sit back and watch Oh hurl insults at President Lee during the Cabinet meeting? Oh is someone who should learn from President Lee, not someone who will hold him back." 2026-06-02 21:21:00
  • Candidates Make Final Appeals Ahead of Local Elections
    Candidates Make Final Appeals Ahead of Local Elections As the June 3 local elections and National Assembly by-elections approach, candidates in key districts such as Gyeonggi, Daegu, and Busan, as well as Pyeongtaek and Busan Buk-gu, are making final appeals for support. They emphasized the importance of voter participation, stating, "We will win and bring about tangible change." In Daegu, a significant battleground for the Democratic Party, candidates Kim Boo-kyum and Choo Kyung-ho urged voters to cast their ballots on election day, highlighting the need for change in the city. Kim stated, "It is time for change. Please give us just one chance. We will revitalize the Daegu economy." Choo, who visited Dongdaegu Station and Kyungpook National University, also called for voter participation, saying, "I ask you to vote on June 3." In Gyeonggi Province, where the first female provincial governor is anticipated, candidates Choo Mi-ae and Yang Hyang-ja are campaigning vigorously, promising to bring change to the region alongside the Lee Jae-myung administration. Choo stated, "I will work with the Lee Jae-myung government to create change in Gyeonggi Province," while Yang emphasized, "I will deliver visible change rather than mere promises." In Busan, where the Democratic Party aims to reclaim the mayoral seat and the People Power Party seeks to retain it, candidates Jeon Jae-soo and Park Hyung-jun are requesting support, claiming to be the only candidates capable of transforming the city. Jeon asserted, "I will prove Busan's change through action, not political strife," while Park emphasized the need to protect Busan, stating, "We must defend Busan, the last bastion on the Nakdong River front, and check the unilateral rule of the Lee Jae-myung administration." Candidates in the closely contested by-elections for Gyeonggi Pyeongtaek and Busan Buk-gu are also encouraging voters and expressing their determination to win. Democratic candidate Kim Yong-nam in Pyeongtaek stated, "If I am elected, you will prove that the Lee Jae-myung government will succeed with your support." In response, candidates Yoo Yi-dong and Jo Guk also urged voters, saying, "If you empower us, we will repay you with a decisive victory," and "Please give overwhelming support so that the voices from the field can translate into policy." Additionally, candidates in the fiercely competitive Busan Buk-gu by-election are focusing on securing public sentiment. Candidates Ha Jung-woo, Park Min-sik, and Han Dong-hoon stated, "We will provide politics like an umbrella that shields you from the storm. We will work even harder," "Vote for the true Busan resident Park Min-sik to ensure victory," and "We will block the cancellation of President Lee Jae-myung's indictment in the National Assembly," urging their supporters to rally behind them.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 15:39:00
  • [6·3 Local Elections] Ruling Party Appeals for Votes Ahead of Election Day
    [[6·3 Local Elections]] Ruling Party Appeals for Votes Ahead of Election Day On June 2, the Democratic Party made a final appeal for votes ahead of the June 3 local elections, urging voters to choose the ruling party candidate who will work with President Lee Jae-myung. Jo Seung-rae, the party's secretary-general, spoke to reporters at the National Assembly, stating, "With just one day left until the election, it is time to vote for the normalization of South Korea and to create an effective local government." He emphasized that the essence of this election is to judge the far-right forces and to support a capable president. Jo urged citizens to actively participate in the voting process and reflect on the significance of the election, asking them to support a president who works effectively. "Please choose candidates who will work in sync with the president throughout his term," he added. He also targeted candidates from the People Power Party, including Oh Se-hoon, Yoon Jeung-bok, Park Wan-su, and Choo Kyung-ho, who have faced various allegations. "Oh is under investigation for allegations of polling fraud, while Yoon is currently on trial for violating election laws," Jo pointed out. He noted that Park is facing accusations related to the illegal production and distribution of AI-generated fake videos, and Choo has been indicted for serious charges related to insurrection. "If they are elected, can they govern effectively?" he questioned. Regarding Han Dong-hoon, Jo stated, "There are already allegations of operating an illegal election office, and discussions in a group chat among Han's supporters have raised concerns about fraudulent residency registrations. This is a clear violation of election laws. We request prompt cooperation from the National Election Commission and investigative authorities." Jo also criticized candidates who have run as independents, such as Kim Kwan-young, who was expelled from the party for cash distribution, and Jo Guk, who is running in Pyeongtaek. "Kim Kwan-young was expelled not for political oppression but for distributing cash. We cannot entrust the future of Jeonbuk to a candidate who consistently lies to cover up his wrongdoings," he said. He urged Democratic supporters in Pyeongtaek to choose candidate Kim Yong-nam instead of Jo Guk.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 12:00:00