AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

Song Seung-hyun
  • Conflict Escalates Between Kim Kwan-young and Democratic Party Over Election Issues
    Conflict Escalates Between Kim Kwan-young and Democratic Party Over Election Issues In response to the results of the Democratic Party's primary for the Jeonbuk governor race, independent candidate Kim Kwan-young's camp criticized the leadership of Jeong Cheong-rae on May 28, stating that their negative tactics resemble a low-quality drama. The Democratic Party has retaliated by labeling Kim as someone who was expelled for allegations of cash distribution, intensifying the conflict between the two sides. Kim's election campaign committee released a statement claiming, "The negative tactics of Jeong Cheong-rae's leadership, in an attempt to counter the Kim Kwan-young surge, evoke images of a low-quality drama that cannot be tolerated. It is not too late to reflect on why the public sentiment in Jeonbuk is shifting against the ruling party." They further asserted, "The slander and distortion tactics employed by Jeong Cheong-rae's leadership have reached an intolerable level. The individuals responsible for turning this election into a mudslinging contest are the candidates like Lee Won-taek, who were accused of colluding with insurrectionists, along with Jeong Cheong-rae's leadership." Regarding recent speculation about prior communication between Kim and President Lee Jae-myung, the committee stated, "Kim has never claimed to have spoken with the president. We question who is manipulating the situation by dragging the president into the election." In response, the Democratic Party issued sharp remarks through spokesperson Han Min-soo and Secretary-General Jo Seung-rae. Spokesperson Han stated, "The act of cash distribution committed by Kim is a serious violation that cannot simply disappear. It is time to stop gambling the future of Jeonbuk on Kim's political maneuvers. Apologizing and resigning today would be the right thing to do for the people of Jeonbuk." Secretary-General Jo also addressed reporters in the National Assembly, asserting, "Kim is a person who was expelled by the Democratic Party for distributing cash. He continues to act as if he is a political victim while rationalizing his independent candidacy by leveraging President Lee."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 16:16:00
  • Democratic Party Claims Lee Won-taek Surpasses Kim Kwan-young in Polls
    Democratic Party Claims Lee Won-taek Surpasses Kim Kwan-young in Polls The Democratic Party stated on May 28 that a recent poll showing Lee Won-taek with higher support than independent candidate Kim Kwan-young reveals the latter's ongoing portrayal as a political victim. The party also criticized former Presidents Lee Myung-bak and Park Geun-hye, asserting that the public would likely view them unfavorably due to their legal troubles and impeachment. During a press conference at the National Assembly, Cho Seung-rae, the party's secretary-general, introduced a poll conducted over two days starting May 26, which indicated that Lee Won-taek was leading Kim Kwan-young. "It is clear that Kim Kwan-young is someone who was expelled from the Democratic Party for distributing cash," Cho said. "He has been pretending to be a political victim, and this essence has now been revealed." Cho further noted that Kim even attempted to justify his candidacy by invoking President Lee Jae-myung, despite an official denial from the Blue House. He expressed concern that anger among residents of Jeolla Province might be growing over the situation, suggesting that support for Lee Won-taek would increase as voters prioritize regional development. Additionally, Cho addressed the recent campaign activities of former Presidents Lee Myung-bak and Park Geun-hye, stating, "The majority of the public will likely evaluate them very harshly." He pointed out their past legal issues and the disappointment they caused during their presidencies, implying that their involvement in the campaign may not be well-received. Cho also expressed skepticism about the possibility of unifying with the Justice Innovation Party in the Pyeongtaek constituency, stating that discussions had concluded with the realization that unification was not feasible at this time.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 16:16:00
  • Han Byeong-do Promises Support for Daegus New Airport and Administrative Merger
    Han Byeong-do Promises Support for Daegu's New Airport and Administrative Merger Han Byeong-do, the floor leader of the Democratic Party, visited Daegu on May 28 to pledge full support for the campaign promises of mayoral candidate Kim Boo-kyum, including the integration of the Daegu-Gyeongbuk new airport and a previously stalled administrative merger. He also committed to creating a Daegu that retains its youth through industrial transformation. During his visit to Kim's campaign rally, Han expressed, "I am here to convey my urgent hope that you will elect Kim. We will surely change Daegu's difficult issues through administration, not politics, with the strength of the ruling party." Han emphasized that if Kim is elected, he will work with President Lee Jae-myung to realize the new airport project and the administrative merger of Daegu and Gyeongbuk. "Regarding the airport issue, the most challenging core problem is the financial aspect. We will secure the budget for this within the year," Han stated. He added that the administrative merger would receive 20 trillion won over four years, with 5 trillion won allocated annually, which he believes will significantly transform Daegu and Gyeongbuk. He concluded, "The only candidate who can overcome Daegu's crisis and make this transformation a reality is Kim. If you elect him, we will turn these promises into reality alongside President Lee. We will show that through industrial transformation, we can create hope in Daegu, where young people are leaving due to a lack of jobs. Please lend your support so we can work for Daegu."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-28 10:57:00
  • Candidates Present Plans for Gyeongnam Governor in TV Debate
    Candidates Present Plans for Gyeongnam Governor in TV Debate In a televised debate ahead of the June 3 local elections, Gyeongnam Governor candidates Kim Kyung-soo of the Democratic Party, Park Wan-soo of the People Power Party, and Jeon Hee-young of the Progressive Party outlined their visions for the region's development while also engaging in negative campaigning over military service and hiring favoritism allegations. The candidates participated in the debate held at Gyeongnam MBC on May 22, emphasizing the need for cooperation with the central government, consistent policies, and the dismantling of factional politics to garner support. Kim stated, "The current crisis cannot be overcome by Gyeongnam alone. We must work together with the central government," challenging Park by asking, "How can a governor who fights against the central government overcome a crisis?" Park responded, "I was born and raised in Gyeongnam and know it better than anyone. I have worked solely for the residents of Gyeongnam. Currently, Gyeongnam leads in all economic, population, and living indicators." Jeon added, "Labor rights must be guaranteed, and the rights to life and survival must be protected. I will end the era of impoverished residents. Gyeongnam needs new figures for new politics." When asked how they would share benefits from the Jinhae New Port and the Gadeok New Airport with Busan, the candidates provided differing responses. Jeon emphasized the need for careful examination of whether these projects would genuinely improve residents' lives, citing the climate crisis and marine ecosystem as critical issues. Park outlined his vision for maximizing Gyeongnam's development, which includes expanding transportation infrastructure, increasing industrial institutions, broadening free economic zones to attract businesses, and fostering international business. Kim asserted, "The new port should be developed into a core of high-value-added logistics integrated with manufacturing, which also requires cooperation with the central government." In response to another common question about securing stable water resources, all three candidates agreed on the need to improve the Nakdong River's water quality. The debate saw intense exchanges, particularly between Kim and Park. Park criticized Kim for the 'Druking incident,' stating, "As a result of stepping down during his term, Gyeongnam's economic growth rate fell to the lowest. His pledge fulfillment rate is also the lowest." In defense, Kim countered, "I facilitated the exemption of the KTX preliminary feasibility study, passed the special law for Gadeok New Airport, advanced the national project for smart industrial complexes, and established the current defense industry framework. During your term, the delinquency rate of corporate loans tripled, and industrial household income ranked 15th out of 17 cities and provinces." Park then raised concerns about Kim's alleged increase in assets amounting to approximately 1.1 billion won during his imprisonment and questioned his military service. Kim responded, "That property was inherited after my father-in-law's passing, and the military service issue was handled according to regulations." Kim also challenged Park regarding allegations of hiring favoritism involving his nephew during his tenure as CEO of Incheon International Airport. He noted that the Board of Audit and Inspection stated there was 'reasonable suspicion' regarding Park's involvement in hiring during his time as mayor of Changwon and as Gyeongnam governor. In response, Park maintained, "All hiring was conducted through legal and proper procedures, and investigations concluded there were no issues."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 19:42:00
  • Democratic Party Targets Voter Support in Chungbuk and Gangwon Regions
    Democratic Party Targets Voter Support in Chungbuk and Gangwon Regions The Democratic Party intensified its campaign efforts in Chungbuk and Gangwon provinces on May 22, the second day of the official election period for the June 3 local elections. This push comes after the opposition People Power Party won control of local governments in these regions during the last election. Jung Cheong-rae, the party's chief election strategist, is focusing on regaining voter support. The campaign kicked off in the morning with greetings at the SK Hynix Cheongju campus, where Jung, along with Shin Yong-han, the candidate for Chungbuk governor, and Lee Jang-seop, the candidate for Cheongju mayor, shook hands and took photos with commuters. Later, Jung visited Chungju Public Market, where he promised full support for Shin and Maeng Jeong-seop, the candidate for Chungju mayor, alongside former Chungbuk governor Lee Si-jong, who is now a campaign committee member. "For Chungbuk to develop, we need a Democratic president, a Democratic governor, and Democratic lawmakers," Jung stated. He added that a pledge implementation team would be formed around Chungbuk lawmakers to ensure that candidates' promises serve the public interest. Jung emphasized that Shin and Maeng are the best candidates to significantly advance Chungbuk and Chungju, pledging that the Democratic Party would fully support their efforts. He highlighted key promises, including the swift establishment of a civilian runway at Cheongju International Airport and the development of a national railway network along the Gangho axis. After concluding the campaign in Chungbuk, Jung traveled to Gangwon in the afternoon to support Woo Sang-ho, the candidate for Gangwon governor. In Gangneung, Jung urged support for Woo and Kim Jung-nam, the candidate for Gangneung mayor, stating, "The Democratic Party and the Lee Jae-myung administration have focused heavily on Gangwon. We will lead the necessary laws and budgets to ensure that your needs are met promptly." Jung also praised Woo's background as the first chief of staff under the Lee Jae-myung administration, saying, "He is someone who can communicate directly with the president. He is not just a well-known name; he is a capable candidate who can truly make a difference." Additionally, Jung and Woo visited Donghae and Samcheok to support candidates Lee Jeong-hak and Lee Jeong-hoon, wrapping up the second day of their campaign activities.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-23 19:30:00
  • 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