Seoul: South Korea's ruling Democratic Party triumphed in local elections, securing wins in most key areas. However, the party lost the crucial Seoul mayoral seat to Oh Se-hoon of the conservative opposition.
According to Thai News Agency, the Democratic Party won 12 out of 16 gubernatorial and city elections nationwide, while the opposition People's Power Party secured 4. This result strengthens the ruling party's control over local administration, just a year after President Lee Jae-myung took office.
The loss in Seoul, South Korea's most politically significant city, is a symbolic setback for the ruling party. It provides the conservative opposition a chance to regain public trust after a crisis triggered by former President Yoon Seok-yeol's failed martial law attempt in 2024, which led to his impeachment.
President Lee, marking his first year in office, expressed readiness to work with local governments without bias. Democratic Party leader Jung Chung-rae thanked voters but acknowledged the disappointment in not reclaiming Seoul's leadership.
Shin Yul, a political science professor at Myongji University, noted the election's focus on symbolic battlegrounds like Seoul and Busan. The results suggest some Seoul voters are unhappy with government real estate policies aimed at controlling housing prices.
Despite this, the Democratic Party's success, including a win in Busan, highlights President Lee's strong nationwide support, partly due to booming exports of AI chips boosting the stock market. Before the election, the People's Power Party held a majority in 12 out of 16 constituencies.
The election faced criticism over a ballot paper shortage at several Seoul polling stations, prompting calls for an investigation. The shortage led to long lines and some voters leaving without voting, causing extended polling hours.
Outrage and protests erupted, with conservative groups blocking ballot box removal in Seoul. The National Election Commission delayed certifying Seoul's election results until Thursday noon. They apologized and promised an investigation, stating the disruption didn't warrant postponing or redoing the election.