Emotional Appeals Mark Final Day of Electioneering
As the June 3 local elections loom, several mayoral candidates concluded their campaigns with emotional appeals to voters, with some visibly moved to tears on the final day of campaigning.
Seoul Mayoral Candidate’s Plea
Oh Se-hoon, the People Power Party candidate for Seoul mayor, addressed supporters in Sinchon, a bustling area in Seoul. He expressed gratitude for the energy and support he received throughout the campaign, stating, “What gave me the most energy was all of you young people who cheered me on wherever I went.” He asserted that he has implemented youth-focused policies more substantively over the past five years than any other mayor or governor.
Addressing the current social climate, Oh remarked, “Korea is a society that has completely collapsed, where the ladder of class mobility is slowly disappearing.” He acknowledged the heavy responsibility he feels seeing the dreams of young people who struggle to even secure a rental apartment. “I apologize,” he stated. “When I was in the ruling party, I couldn’t work harder on policies, and when I was in the opposition, I couldn’t check the mistakes of the ruling party, leading to this situation.”
Oh further pledged, “If Oh Se-hoon defends Seoul, it will force President Lee Jae-myung to reflect and apologize, and we will definitely resolve the housing policy issues.” He added, “We must curb the rampage of the 500,000 [referring to a perceived political force]. If I defend Seoul, I will bring this presidency back on track.” During his rally, Oh was seen turning away and wiping away tears after a citizen came up to the stage to express their support.
Daegu Mayoral Candidate’s Tribute
In Daegu, Kim Bu-gyeom, the Democratic Party candidate for mayor, also became emotional, recalling his late father during his final campaign event. Standing before the former Daegu Department Store building in Dongseong-ro, Kim spoke of his father, who passed away last year. “He was someone who diligently gave me cigarettes and tissues every election,” he said, his voice trembling.
Kim recited a childhood song his father used to sing to him, saying, “I think my father is watching over me from heaven, telling me to be diligent and steady.” He then expressed his gratitude, stating, “Thanks to my father in heaven, and thanks to the citizens of Daegu whom I respect,” before shedding tears.
Busan and Other Campaigns
In Busan, Minjoo Party candidate Ha Jeong-woo, running in a by-election for the Buk-gu constituency, was seen adjusting his glasses to wipe away tears during his campaign. Ha was engaged in street campaigning with his family in Gupo-daegyo, Busan.
People Power Party interim leader Jang Dong-hyuk visited his hometown in Chungnam for the final campaign. While rallying in Cheongyang, he acknowledged the party’s shortcomings, saying, “The People Power Party has its deficiencies. Some people, disappointed with our party, will not vote tomorrow.” He urged voters not to give up, emphasizing, “If you give up and don’t engage in dialogue, remember that thieves will come and take away your property and your life.”
Jang reflected on his nine months as party leader, admitting to difficulties and criticism, but stated he persevered for the sake of a victorious election. “Even if you are disappointed with the People Power Party, if you don’t go out and vote, our candidates will lose, and you will regret it,” he warned.
People Power Party lawmaker Kim Eun-hye was also reported to have shed tears while campaigning in Gyeonggi province, encountering a supporter.
