Daegu residents express growing frustration with the People Power Party (PPP), labeling it a “vending machine for national pride” as approval ratings plummet ahead of the June 3 local elections.
Kim Bu-gyeom’s Bold Mayoral Bid Shakes PPP Stronghold
On March 30, former Prime Minister Kim Bu-gyeom declared his candidacy for Daegu mayor at a PPP central district event commemorating the 2·28 Movement. Surrounded by enthusiastic supporters, Kim urged voters to prioritize national pride, stating, “Even if it means risking my position, we must place national pride first.” He emphasized that the PPP must deliver on this front to secure victory.
Local sentiment echoes Kim’s call. A PPP candidate in Nam-gu, one of Daegu’s key districts, remarked, “National pride only surfaces during elections—it’s the right size for that moment.” A university professor added, “National pride is precisely what makes Daegu anxious; this time, we must address it head-on.”
Historical Dominance Faces Unprecedented Challenge
Daegu has been a PPP bastion since the inaugural 1995 local elections, with ruling party candidates consistently winning mayoral races by wide margins. Under former President Moon Jae-in in 2018, PPP’s Hong Joon-pyo secured a 13.98 percentage point lead over his Democratic Party rival.
Yet current polls signal trouble. PPP and Gyeongbuk region support has halved since January, with Daegu’s central district turnout doubling over two months but remaining critically low. Kim Bu-gyeom openly rallies PPP voters for both primaries and the general election, highlighting internal divisions.
‘National Pride Simpleton’ Slogan Resonates Amid Economic Woes
Kim introduced the “national pride simpleton” slogan during his declaration, a phrase even younger voters recognize. A 70-year-old resident, Kim Mo, shared skepticism: “I voted PPP faithfully before, but not this time.”
Economic pressures compound discontent. Daegu ranks lowest nationally in gross regional domestic product (GRDP) growth, self-employed business expansion, and real estate deposit rates. Poll analysts note, “The PPP endorsement process has instilled fear among voters.”
