The Democratic Party of Korea has recently responded to the shrinking lead in the Seoul mayoral race between the ruling and opposition parties, noting, “Although variations influenced by particular age groups or areas are accurate, the overall electoral situation stays the same.”
Rep. Lee In-young, who is the head of the election committee for Democratic Party candidate Chong Won-o’s campaign for Seoul mayor, made these comments on the 17th during a press conference at the National Assembly. He stated, “We expect that as the election moves into its second half, there may be some shifts in momentum,” and added, “The fundamental structure of the race remains unchanged.” He noted that the recent upward movement of People Power Party candidate Oh Se-hoon is not enough to significantly alter the outcome. The shrinking gap between Chong and Oh in recent polls, he explained, is simply due to the consolidation of their respective support bases as the election draws closer, and it will not affect the ongoing perception that Chong Won-o holds a strong advantage.
In response to the People Power Party’s criticisms of Chong, Lee said, “We strongly denounce the disgraceful false information and harmful labeling strategies.” He continued, “These methods are even more contemptible than the ‘gangster’ label that was wrongly placed on President Lee Jae Myung.” Lee stressed, “We will firmly reject and remove such base political tactics from the political scene. We have already submitted three complaints, and there will be no uncertainty in holding them responsible after the election.” He also cautioned, “We will take responsibility for any further defamation or political manipulation.”
Regarding the missing rebar at a portion of the GTX-A Samsung Station construction site in the Yeongdong-daero area of Gangnam-gu, Lee stated, “He must explain whether he was aware of this during his time as mayor, whether he hid it, and what steps he took if he was informed. Legal consequences may arise if needed.”
Lee described the election as “a contest between a capable mayor and one who only speaks, between competence and petty political maneuvering.” He further stated, “This election marks historical importance as the end of the Seoul version of an insurrection. Oh welcomed the release of former President Yoon Suk-yeol and supported his trial without detention. Oh should be evaluated together with the forces involved in the insurrection.”
In reaction to criticism from Oh’s team claiming “Chong is avoiding TV debates,” Lee stated, “If Oh’s side resorts to negative campaigning, false propaganda, or unethical political attacks, additional debates would be problematic. If such negativity spreads even to the debate stage, Seoul residents would feel very uneasy.” He further mentioned, “The candidate appears more open-minded, so we will take it into consideration.”
Rep. Park Sung-jun, who leads the campaign’s Strategic Message Division, and Rep. Oh Ki-hyeong, head of the Policy Division, were present at the press conference.
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