AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

Song Seung-hyun
  • 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
  • Seoul Mayoral Election Spirals Amid Allegations of Missing Rebar
    Seoul Mayoral Election Spirals Amid Allegations of Missing Rebar As the Seoul mayoral election, often referred to as the "flower" of local elections, approaches, tensions between candidates are escalating, leading to a potential crisis. The Democratic Party, alongside candidate Jung Won-o, has intensified its attacks over allegations of missing rebar in the GTX-A line, prompting Oh Se-hoon of the People Power Party to demand an official apology from Jung and the Democratic Party, further escalating the conflict. At a press conference on the morning of May 19, lawmaker Ko Min-jeong, co-head of the "Oh Se-hoon 10-Year Judgment Headquarters" within Jung's campaign, increased pressure regarding the rebar allegations. "This construction failure is not merely a construction defect but a reflection of the Seoul city's administrative safety management capabilities and the overall public oversight system," Ko stated. "Oh must take clear responsibility for the allegations of poor construction and cover-up. If he attempted to conceal this, it would be a dereliction of duty that disregards citizen safety." Ko emphasized that during Oh's four years as mayor, incidents such as sinkholes, the Itaewon tragedy, and safety concerns regarding Han River buses have surged, asserting, "Oh, as the final safety manager of Seoul, is the source of safety negligence." The Democratic Party also ramped up its attacks during a parliamentary strategy meeting, with floor leader Han Byeong-do stating, "He knew about the missing rebar but failed to properly inform the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. Is showcasing his achievements more important than the lives and safety of Seoul citizens?" He added, "Oh, who hides failures and neglects safety, is unfit to be responsible for Seoul." In response, Oh claimed during a policy meeting that he learned about the missing rebar through news reports, asserting that the deputy mayor also had not received any reports regarding the issue. He accused Jung and the Democratic Party of exploiting the allegations for electoral gain and called for a public apology. "I learned about this issue from the news, and the deputy mayor has stated he received no reports on it," Oh said. "Jung and the Democratic Party should sincerely reflect and apologize for inflating the allegations and spreading them to the level of rumors for electoral purposes." Oh emphasized the importance of resuming construction quickly to ensure that operations scheduled for August 8 proceed without disruption, stating, "The operation of the GTX-A line is my top priority, and I will ensure it is managed properly." Additionally, Oh's campaign issued a statement describing the situation as a blatant "political maneuver" involving the mobilization of investigative and administrative powers for electoral purposes. They asserted that the city had recognized the issue in advance and had taken necessary actions through proper procedures. They warned the Democratic Party, saying, "Lacking confidence to compete for citizens' votes, they are attempting to eliminate opponents by borrowing the sword of power agencies. Investigative and administrative powers are not electoral tools for the ruling party. The citizens of Seoul will deliver a stern judgment against this undemocratic and arrogant behavior."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 17:16:26
  • Kim Yong-nam Apologizes for Assault and Verbal Abuse Controversy
    Kim Yong-nam Apologizes for Assault and Verbal Abuse Controversy Kim Yong-nam, the Democratic Party candidate for the Pyeongtaek re-election, issued an apology on May 19 in response to allegations of assault against his aides. He expressed deep regret, stating, "I sincerely reflect on my past immaturity and mistakes." He emphasized that the situation was entirely his fault and pledged to approach the citizens of Pyeongtaek with humility as he continues his campaign. In a statement, Kim said, "Regardless of the circumstances, I bow my head in sincere apology. I feel a heavy sense of regret and responsibility for the deep wounds caused by my harsh words and actions." He explained that the incident stemmed from the pressure he felt during his first term as a lawmaker to achieve results, admitting, "My inability to control my emotions and my outburst of anger were entirely my immaturity and mistake." Kim acknowledged that he failed to consider the feelings of his dedicated colleagues who worked tirelessly alongside him, vowing to reflect on himself strictly and to listen to the citizens of Pyeongtaek with the utmost humility. The candidate's campaign team also released a statement denying the allegations, asserting that no one in the camp has experienced or witnessed the violence or abusive language described in the reports. They stated, "As the election approaches in two weeks, the attacks will become sharper, but our staff and volunteers will remain steadfast. There is no top-down management style in our campaign that supports one politician over another." Earlier that day, a media outlet reported on the allegations of assault and verbal abuse against Kim during his first term as a lawmaker. An aide claimed that Kim kicked him in the shin with his shoe and subjected him to various verbal abuses, leading to the controversy.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 12:43:48
  • Ruling Party Condemns Starbucks Tank Day Marketing as a Social Crime Against Human Rights
    Ruling Party Condemns Starbucks' 'Tank Day' Marketing as a Social Crime Against Human Rights The Democratic Party of Korea has condemned Starbucks Korea's 'Tank Day' marketing campaign, launched on the 46th anniversary of the May 18 Gwangju Democratization Movement, calling it a "social crime that tramples on human rights and democracy."During a party meeting on May 19, Han Byeong-do, the party's floor leader, stated, "Yesterday, Starbucks unveiled a truly bizarre event," adding, "Before the atmosphere of mourning could settle, they drove another nail into the hearts of Gwangju citizens. I am filled with anger beyond despair."He continued, "This is neither an expression of freedom nor a legitimate event. It is an inhumane act that shakes the foundations of our community and denies the values of democracy," expressing strong suspicion that this was not merely an act of thoughtless individuals. "We will not overlook this anti-historical behavior," he declared.Ahn Do-geol, another party member, emphasized, "Any act that trivializes the sacrifices of those who gave their lives for democracy in South Korea, turning them into a commercial event, is unacceptable for any reason." He called for a comprehensive overhaul of the historical and human rights sensitivity verification system, internal reviews, and accountability regarding this incident.He added, "The history of democracy is not a subject for mockery. The sacrifices of Gwangju should not be used as marketing material, and we must not take this matter lightly."Additionally, Lee Joo-hee, the party's spokesperson, hinted at forthcoming discussions within the party regarding the controversial event. After the meeting, she told reporters, "While we have not yet discussed specifics within the party, as emphasized by our leadership and members today, we are viewing this matter seriously. I believe there will be discussions within the party."She reiterated Han's statement, describing the issue as a significant matter that undermines the spirit of May 18, suggesting that various responses and considerations will follow.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 12:39:24
  • Ruling Party Criticizes Oh Se-hoon Over GTX-A Steel Shortage and Han River Bus Issues
    Ruling Party Criticizes Oh Se-hoon Over GTX-A Steel Shortage and Han River Bus Issues The Democratic Party criticized Oh Se-hoon, the People Power Party candidate, on May 19, over allegations of missing steel reinforcements in the GTX-A project and issues related to the Han River bus service. They stated, "He is unfit to take responsibility for Seoul. He should resign and take accountability," and emphasized, "We cannot entrust citizen safety to someone who shifts blame." During a National Assembly meeting, Han Byeong-do, the party's floor leader, highlighted three major administrative failures that threaten citizens: the 20 billion won spent on the audit of the Han River bus service, the 150 billion won wasted, and the 2,570 missing steel reinforcements in the construction project. Han added, "It seems Oh prioritizes showcasing his achievements over the lives and safety of citizens. Similar to the free school meal incident, why not step down and take responsibility now? Oh, who hides failures and neglects safety, is not qualified to lead Seoul." Han Jeong-ae, the party's policy chair, pointed out, "Oh claims the construction company is at fault, but the bidding documents from the Seoul city government list him as the responsible party. This is no different from the Han River bus incident, where he shifted blame to human error after safety accidents occurred." She stressed, "This is shameless evasion of responsibility. We cannot entrust the safety of citizens to someone who prioritizes their own security and shifts blame." Cheon Jun-ho, the party's deputy floor leader, also criticized Oh, stating, "He is characterized by a lack of concern for safety and blatant arrogance. He must take responsibility and apologize first. The most important value a mayor should uphold is the safety of citizens."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 12:10:35
  • Han Byeong-do Urges Cooperation for National Assembly Session Amid Tensions
    Han Byeong-do Urges Cooperation for National Assembly Session Amid Tensions Han Byeong-do, the floor leader of the Democratic Party, emphasized the need for a National Assembly session on May 19, urging the People Power Party to cooperate in electing the next leadership. "The clock of the National Assembly must not stop. I call for significant cooperation," he stated, reiterating the importance of convening the session.During a meeting at the National Assembly, Han noted, "We must complete the election of the leadership before the local election campaign period from May 21 to June 2," and requested the People Power Party to assist in holding the session on May 20.He added, "The new leadership must be in place by May 30 to begin their duties normally. The National Assembly Act stipulates that the new leadership should be elected five days before the expiration of the previous leadership's term. The People Power Party is violating the law," he said.Han further stressed the urgency of preparing emergency measures for the prolonged situation in the Middle East and expediting legislation to support the KOSPI 8000 era. He also called for the completion of prosecutorial reforms and the normalization of the real estate market.In response to Jang Dong-hyuk's criticism of the upcoming Japan-Korea summit, Han remarked, "It is clear what the intention is behind holding a summit right before the elections. The level of awareness from the leader of the main opposition party is truly disheartening."He added, "It seems he has quickly forgotten the international embarrassment of returning empty-handed from his visit to the U.S., where he couldn't even meet with a minister or vice minister. The Yoon Suk-yeol administration is doing its utmost to restore South Korea's international standing, which was undermined by his administration. I hope he will exercise restraint."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-19 11:34:03