AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

Song Seung-hyun
  • Democratic Party Urges People Power Party to Cease Negative Campaigning
    Democratic Party Urges People Power Party to Cease Negative Campaigning The Democratic Party called on the People Power Party on May 14 to refrain from negative campaigning, stating it would respond firmly to falsehoods. Han Byeong-do, the party's floor leader, urged the opposition to stop spreading misinformation ahead of the June 3 local elections. During a policy coordination meeting at the National Assembly, Han referenced the People Power Party's recent allegations against Jeong Won-o, the party's candidate for Seoul mayor, regarding a past violent conviction. He described the claims as "merely one-sided assertions based on the opposing side's statements from 30 years ago." Han further noted that similar unfounded allegations had been made against Lee Jae-myung, the then-Gyeonggi governor, during his own tenure as a lawmaker. He emphasized that the repetition of such negative campaigning must be met with serious and decisive action. Lee Joo-hee, the party's spokesperson, commented that while competitive elections can be beneficial, the current situation involves the People Power Party focusing on discrediting opponents without presenting concrete policies. She expressed concern that the continuation of such tactics, which go beyond simple criticism to include falsehoods, would increase public fatigue. Lee urged the People Power Party to refrain from negative campaigning based on misinformation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-14 12:06:29
  • Han Byeong-do Appeals for Support for Democratic Party Candidates in Local Elections
    Han Byeong-do Appeals for Support for Democratic Party Candidates in Local Elections Han Byeong-do, the floor leader of the Democratic Party, called on May 14 for support of the party's candidates in the upcoming June 3 local elections, stating that they are the best choice to revitalize local areas and normalize South Korea alongside the Lee Jae-myung administration. He also criticized Jang Dong-hyuk, the leader of the People Power Party, for his continuous negative remarks about government policies. During a policy coordination meeting held at the National Assembly, Han emphasized the need to create effective local governments through the elections, asserting, "All Democratic candidates are capable of performing well. Strong local governments are essential for the well-being of communities and citizens." He further remarked, "Local power backed by Yoon Suk-yeol has been synonymous with incompetence and irresponsibility for the past four years," reiterating that the Democratic Party's capable candidates are the optimal choice for revitalizing local areas and normalizing South Korea. Han also directed his criticism at Jang, who has recently expressed negative views on government policies, including support funds for high oil prices, via Facebook. He stated, "It is hard to believe he is the leader of a political party." "It seems that Jang is feeling rushed these days. He has been making reckless remarks that are hard to believe for someone in his position," Han said, pointing out Jang's claim that the support funds for high oil prices are merely for electoral purposes. "Can he not see the citizens struggling with high prices and the prolonged conflict in the Middle East that has led to soaring oil prices?" Han criticized Jang for belittling Democratic candidates as 'pick of the Gaetdal' and accused him of engaging in irresponsible obstructionism, slander, and smear campaigns against Lee Jae-myung. He concluded, "The Democratic Party will earn the people's choice solely based on our capabilities and vision. I hope the People Power Party can regain its composure."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-14 11:29:44
  • Experts Predict Comfortable Victory for Ruling Party in Upcoming By-Elections
    Experts Predict Comfortable Victory for Ruling Party in Upcoming By-Elections The upcoming by-elections, held alongside the June 3 local elections and featuring 14 races, are generating significant interest. Both major parties have declared their commitment to a full-scale effort in these elections, leading experts to express mixed opinions on the Democratic Party's goal of retaining 13 districts and the potential for unification in key battlegrounds. As the elections approach, the outcome remains uncertain. In an interview with Aju Economy on May 14, six political experts largely predicted a comfortable victory for the Democratic Party in districts outside of key battlegrounds like Busan North and Pyeongtaek, which Democratic Party leader Jeong Cheong-rae has identified as critical. Political commentator Lee Jong-hoon noted the influence of President Lee Jae-myung's popularity and the lack of progress on unification among conservative candidates in Busan North, stating, "Unless there are unexpected developments, the Democratic Party will retain all 13 districts." Cho Sung-joo, head of the Political Development Institute, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that outside of the battlegrounds, the Democratic Party is likely to win comfortably. Choi Jin, director of the Presidential Leadership Research Institute, acknowledged the People Power Party's potential to secure victories in Daegu Dalseong and the conservative strongholds of Chungnam Gongju, Buyeo, and Cheongyang, but predicted that the Democratic Party would dominate in all other areas. However, some experts cautioned against premature conclusions, anticipating a possible resurgence for the People Power Party. Eom Kyung-young, director of the Era Spirit Research Institute, remarked, "It will be difficult for the Democratic Party to secure all 13 districts. The People Power Party has a strong chance of winning in Ulsan Nam-gu as well," adding that the Pyeongtaek race could see the People Power Party's Yoo Ui-dong gaining traction, and that the true outcome in Hanam Gap would only be clear once the votes are counted. In the most competitive districts, including Pyeongtaek and Busan North, experts offered differing views on the likelihood of unification efforts between the progressive and conservative camps. Choi Jin predicted that both districts would see unification, suggesting that negotiations between the Democratic Party and the Justice Party are likely in Pyeongtaek, where both parties may engage in some form of deal regarding candidacies. He noted, "Discussions will likely center around Justice Party candidate Cho and independent candidate Han Dong-hoon, both of whom are polling well and are unlikely to withdraw from the race." Conversely, some experts speculated that unification could occur among conservative candidates in Pyeongtaek, traditionally a conservative stronghold. Shin Yul, a professor of political science at Myongji University, stated, "While unification in Busan North seems challenging, there is a possibility of unification among conservative candidates Yoo and Hwang Kyo-ahn in Pyeongtaek." On the other hand, there are pessimistic views suggesting that unification efforts may ultimately fail in both Pyeongtaek and Busan North. Political commentator Park Sang-byeong indicated that both districts, often cited as likely candidates for unification, may see candidates Cho and Democratic Party's Ha Jung-woo winning instead. He noted, "Cho is aligned with the broader democratic camp, while Kim Yong-nam of the Democratic Party is not a traditional party member. Therefore, voting for Cho may not be a burden for Democratic supporters." Some experts also pointed out that the high approval ratings for candidates Cho and Han could complicate unification efforts. Lee Jong-hoon remarked, "Given Cho's strong support in Pyeongtaek, he is likely to actively promote unification messages. As the deadline for unification approaches, we may see movements toward consolidation within the conservative camp. Ultimately, support ratings will determine the outcome." Eom Kyung-young added, "For unification to occur, one side must hold a clear advantage, but currently, both People Power Party candidate Park Min-sik and Han are showing competitive support levels. In Pyeongtaek, either Kim or Cho needs to gain a decisive edge, which complicates unification efforts. If this trend continues, it may favor Han and Yoo." Additionally, experts emphasized that while the so-called 'shy conservatives' may rally, they are unlikely to significantly alter the overall dynamics favoring the Democratic Party. Park Sang-byeong noted, "Shy conservatives will naturally come together and may perform better on election day than current polling suggests, but their numbers are not sufficient to overcome the Democratic Party's lead." Lee Jong-hoon also mentioned, "Not only shy conservatives but also 'shy Lee Jae-myung' supporters exist, raising doubts about whether the consolidation of shy conservatives will lead to victories for People Power Party candidates."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-14 06:12:00
  • Democratic Party Launches Candidate Selection Events in Gangwon and Seoul
    Democratic Party Launches Candidate Selection Events in Gangwon and Seoul The Democratic Party of Korea declared its transition to a local election system on May 11 by launching its Central Election Committee and holding candidate selection events in Gangwon and Seoul, reinforcing its commitment to resolving the rebellion and securing voter support. During a meeting of the Central Election Committee in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, and subsequent candidate selection events in both regions, the party reaffirmed its determination to achieve victory in the June 3 local elections, focusing on resolving the rebellion and ensuring the success of the Lee Jae-myung administration. Jung Cheong-rae, the party's representative, called for support for Woo Sang-ho, the candidate for Gangwon governor, during the committee meeting, emphasizing the importance of overcoming the rebellion and normalizing the country to support the success of the Lee administration. "The citizens' efforts allowed us to lift the state of emergency, and we are on the path to overcoming the rebellion and normalizing the country," Jung stated. "This election is a golden opportunity for the success of the Lee Jae-myung administration. Woo will be a strong partner in realizing the government's philosophy in the region." At the Gangwon candidate selection event held in Chuncheon, Jung reiterated the need to rally support for Woo's election and solidify the party's commitment to resolving the rebellion through local election victories. He remarked, "This local election is about overcoming the abnormal state characterized by political oppression and attempts to undermine Lee Jae-myung, as well as the state of emergency and rebellion, and striving for national normalization." While mentioning Woo, he added, "Woo will follow the path and direction set by the citizens, ensuring he does not go alone but walks alongside the people of Gangwon. He understands the president's thoughts and governance philosophy better than anyone and will be the key to unlocking a great leap for Gangwon." Woo also emphasized the importance of the upcoming local elections, stating, "Through this election, we must fulfill President Lee's governance philosophy of transitioning to a local era." He urged the nominated candidates, saying, "Your victory is the victory of the Democratic Party. If you lose, both the Democratic Party and the president will lose." In the afternoon, the Democratic Party held a candidate selection event in Seoul, where Jung again stressed the necessity of winning local elections, including reclaiming Seoul. He noted, "The spirit of the times in 2026 is national normalization. Overcoming the state of emergency and rebellion and restoring normalcy under the Yoon Seok-yeol administration's prosecutorial dictatorship is the spirit of the times." He urged candidates to wear their blue jackets with pride and carry the mission of supporting local election victories and the success of the Lee administration. Jung Won-o, the candidate for Seoul mayor, asserted, "The spirit of the times for this Seoul election is to replace the local government with capable leadership. We must change the ineffective current mayoral system and create an efficient Seoul administration." He warned that if Oh Se-hoon, the candidate from the People Power Party, were to win, it would lead to ongoing political conflict with President Lee for four years. "Only by electing Jung Won-o, who stands at the center of life, can Seoul's citizens be happy and the city develop. We will ensure that we replace the administrative power of Seoul to create a city where residents feel the effectiveness of governance."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 16:37:54
  • Jung Cheong-rae Reaffirms Commitment to Victory in Gangwon Ahead of Local Elections
    Jung Cheong-rae Reaffirms Commitment to Victory in Gangwon Ahead of Local Elections Jung Cheong-rae, leader of the Democratic Party, reaffirmed his commitment to winning the local elections on May 11, emphasizing the need for unity among candidates for Gangwon governor and local council members. He urged that they must work together for the future of both South Korea and Gangwon Province. At a candidate selection meeting in Chuncheon, Jung stated, "Our slogan and banner for the June 3 local elections is 'Normalization of the Nation and Efficient Local Government.'" He expressed the need to move away from the "abnormal" conditions experienced under the previous administration, which he described as a period marked by oppression of the opposition and attacks on Lee Jae-myung. Jung highlighted the importance of effective governance, saying, "Just as President Lee has demonstrated remarkable administrative capabilities and exceptional diplomatic skills, our promise is to create a local government that works as effectively as the President's administration." He stressed that all levels of government, from the President to local governors and council members, must unite to shape the future of South Korea and Gangwon Province. Specifically addressing Woo Sang-ho, the Democratic candidate for Gangwon governor, Jung remarked, "He is the man sent by the President, who understands the President's thoughts and governance philosophy better than anyone else." He expressed confidence that Woo would be the key to unlocking a significant leap forward for Gangwon Province. Jung concluded by expressing his gratitude for Woo's candidacy, stating, "I am truly fortunate and happy to have Woo as our candidate. Let us move forward together on the path to prosperity for South Korea and a resurgence for Gangwon Province."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 12:17:35
  • Jeon Hyun-hee Appointed Head of Seoul Campaign for Local Elections
    Jeon Hyun-hee Appointed Head of Seoul Campaign for Local Elections The Democratic Party announced the appointment of Jeon Hyun-hee, a former Supreme Council member, as the head of its Seoul campaign committee under the central election committee for the upcoming June 3 local elections. Jeon, who currently serves as the chief campaign officer for the party's Seoul mayoral candidate Jeong Won-o, will oversee election strategies and organizational operations across Seoul following her appointment on May 11. In her remarks, Jeon stated, "Seoul is the site of the citizens' 'Revolution of Light' that safeguarded democracy," expressing her determination to achieve victory in Seoul to completely resolve internal strife and ensure the triumph of democracy. She added, "I will work vigorously with the citizens of Seoul to ensure that the wave of change that began in the alleys leads to the realization of a 'true Republic of Korea' where the people are the masters." Previously, on May 10, the Democratic Party launched a party-wide election committee named 'Normalization of the Republic of Korea' in preparation for the local elections, transitioning into an election system. At that time, Jeon joined the alley campaign committee, taking a frontline role in the party's election efforts in Seoul, where she is expected to drive the party's success in the local elections.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-11 08:55:11
  • Lee Hoon-ki Calls for Government to Lower Communication Costs for Citizens
    Lee Hoon-ki Calls for Government to Lower Communication Costs for Citizens Lee Hoon-ki, a member of the Democratic Party, held a discussion at the National Assembly on May 8, urging a paradigm shift in government communication cost policies to better reflect citizens' experiences. During the "Discussion on Reducing Communication Costs Felt by Citizens," Lee expressed disappointment with the recent announcement from the Ministry of Science and ICT regarding a 20,000 won 5G plan. He stated, "I had high hopes after seeing the press release, but upon reviewing the actual details, it became clear that the government is merely increasing service offerings to claim a reduction, without providing any substantial benefits for citizens." He emphasized that, similar to how amendments to corporate law have boosted stock prices, a fundamental restructuring of the market is necessary for genuine cost reductions in communication fees. The discussion also highlighted concerns that the government's proposed fee restructuring plan, announced in April, would have minimal impact on actual service quality or household financial relief. Moon Hyung-nam, president of Sookmyung Women's University, pointed out, "According to the government's figures, the average monthly savings per person is 488 won, but when accounting for the decrease in telecom company revenues, the actual savings felt by users is only about 180 won." Cho Soo-hyung, head of the Korea Consumer Protection Center for Telecommunications, noted that excessive penalties for two-year contracts create significant barriers to consumer choice, stating, "We need to go beyond simple fee reductions and implement measures to alleviate the actual cost burden, including reforms to the penalty system." Criticism also arose regarding the government's annual announcements of communication cost reduction policies, which some labeled as mere token gestures. Lim Hyung-do, a special professor of computer engineering at Kyung Hee University, remarked, "It would be better if there were no negotiations between the government and the three major telecom companies regarding fee reductions. Such negotiations lead to delays in policy announcements until the telecom companies feel pressured to propose reductions." The discussion included a structural analysis of why communication costs remain high, citing Japan's Rakuten Mobile, which offers unlimited 5G service for around 30,000 won. Kim Hyup, vice president of the Korea Policy Forum, explained, "Japan has achieved a 30,000 won unlimited plan by lowering infrastructure investment costs through cloud-based virtualization technology. We need competitive policies that fundamentally change the market structure, rather than just fine-tuning existing conditions." However, Song Cheol, head of external relations at the Korea Telecommunications Operators Association (KOTA), countered that comparing Rakuten's pricing to domestic budget phone services is inappropriate. Kim quickly responded, stating, "Dismissing Rakuten's pricing as budget phone rates prevents a fair comparison with domestic telecom companies. Rakuten Mobile is a fourth mobile carrier approved by the Japanese government, and categorizing it as a budget service is misleading."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-08 17:02:05
  • Ruling Party Criticizes Opposition for Rejecting Constitutional Amendment
    Ruling Party Criticizes Opposition for Rejecting Constitutional Amendment The Democratic Party has warned that the People Power Party will face judgment from the public and history for its refusal to participate in the parliamentary vote on a constitutional amendment on May 7. During a meeting of party lawmakers on May 8, Democratic Party leader Jung Cheong-rae criticized the opposition for labeling the proposed phased constitutional amendment as hasty. He pointed out that the People Power Party was absent during the crucial parliamentary session where the amendment was first discussed. "The People Power Party was not there to fulfill its historical responsibility," he said. Jung added, "The opposition's rejection of the amendment does not align with the expectations of the public or history. The people will not forgive this. History will not forgive such actions either. I believe the People Power Party will be judged in the upcoming local elections." Han Byeong-do, the Democratic Party's floor leader, also criticized the People Power Party for making its decision to abstain from the vote a party line, thus suppressing individual lawmakers' conscience and judgment. "By doing so, they have deprived the public of their opportunity to make a choice," he said, urging the opposition to recognize their shame. He further noted that following the constitutional amendment, the opposition has requested unlimited debate on 51 livelihood-related bills. "While opposing the amendment, they have hindered the future of South Korea and declared a strike against the processing of these bills," Han stated. "There is no sense of responsibility for the nation or the people's livelihoods. We will take all possible measures to address the issues that the People Power Party has neglected."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-08 15:33:40
  • Democratic Party Strategically Nominates Lawyer Kim Young-bin for Local Elections
    Democratic Party Strategically Nominates Lawyer Kim Young-bin for Local Elections The Democratic Party announced on May 8 that it has strategically nominated lawyer Kim Young-bin for the Gongju, Buyeo, and Cheongyang districts, completing nominations for all 14 by-elections. In a ceremony held at the National Assembly, the party officially welcomed Kim as a new member. Jeong Cheong-rae, the party leader, praised Kim, stating, "He has dedicated nearly a decade to correcting societal injustices and establishing justice. He has made significant contributions to prosecutorial reform while assisting the Minister of Justice. He has shown unwavering support for the underprivileged and has firmly opposed corrupt high-ranking officials. We are grateful for his joining the Democratic Party and hope he will actively contribute to local development." In response, Kim expressed his commitment, saying, "I will dedicate all my abilities to advance the greater future of Gongju, Buyeo, and Cheongyang, the places that nurtured me. I aim to be a capable worker who meets the party's needs and collaborates persistently with the central government to drive substantial support." He specifically mentioned Park Soo-hyun, who resigned from his parliamentary position to run for governor of South Chungcheong Province, stating, "I will push policies forward seamlessly in perfect synergy." Following Kim's recruitment, the Democratic Party convened its Strategic Nomination Management Committee to expedite the nomination process. Chief Spokesperson Kang Jun-hyun told reporters after the committee meeting, "We have decided to strategically nominate Kim, who graduated from all levels of school in Gongju, for the Gongju, Buyeo, and Cheongyang electoral district. He has worked diligently to create a judicial system that meets the public's expectations while assisting the Minister of Justice and has laid the groundwork for the prosecutorial reform bills currently being pursued by the Democratic Party." He added, "With his experience in public office focused on the people's livelihoods and his well-honed expertise, Kim Young-bin is the ideal candidate to overcome the crisis of local extinction and revitalize the economy of Gongju, Buyeo, and Cheongyang. With this, we have completed nominations for the by-elections. The Democratic Party will do its utmost to ensure that candidates with vision and capability receive the people's support."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-08 15:02:46
  • Ruling Coalition Calls for Legislative Reform of Criminal Procedure Law
    Ruling Coalition Calls for Legislative Reform of Criminal Procedure Law On May 8, the ruling coalition, led by the Democratic Party and the Innovation Party, argued for the need to reform the Criminal Procedure Law during a discussion forum. They expressed concerns that if prosecutors lead the reform, they might regain investigative powers, emphasizing the necessity for proactive legislative measures by the National Assembly. Democratic Party lawmakers Kim Yong-min and Kim Young-ho, along with Innovation Party lawmaker Park Eun-jung, held a forum titled "Direction of Criminal Procedure Law Reform" at the National Assembly, highlighting the importance of legislative leadership in this process. Kim Yong-min stated, "If the government proposes a revision after the local elections, it will likely be led by prosecutors, who may create mechanisms to regain supplementary and direct investigative powers. Therefore, our party should proactively draft a desirable reform proposal. I have repeatedly suggested this to our leadership, but it has not been accepted yet." He added, "I have started discussions with fellow lawmakers, including Kim Young-ho and Park, as well as those passionate about prosecutor reform, such as Legislative Judiciary Committee Chair Seo Young-kyo and lawmaker Choi Hyuk-jin, to draft a proposal based on the ideas raised in today's forum. We aim to create a beneficial law for the public by aligning it with the government's proposal." Park emphasized that the Criminal Procedure Law falls under the jurisdiction of the National Assembly's Legislative Judiciary Committee, stating, "It is inappropriate for prosecutors, who have previously abused their powers, to draft the reform proposal." He further noted, "There is no provision in the Criminal Procedure Law that states prosecutors conduct investigations. If they lead the reform, they may seek to designate cases like arrests and those nearing the statute of limitations through presidential decree to regain investigative powers." Kim Young-ho also remarked, "The corruption displayed by prosecutors during the Yoon Suk-yeol administration underscores the urgent need for prosecutor reform. The Lee Jae-myung administration must ensure that legislative measures are tightly woven to firmly root out the issues in the prosecution system." 2026-05-08 12:20:13