Opposition party strategists aggressively promote Jo Kuk for National Assembly nominations in challenging districts, aiming to maximize voter impact through high-profile endorsements.
Strategic Push in Tough Seats
Analysts view these efforts as deliberate moves to galvanize public opinion via direct engagements with Jo. Jo’s team plans to announce a candidate selection next week.
Democratic Party Chairman Lee Ui-dong urged Jo’s representative on April 9, “Don’t get greedy—head to Pyongtaek for the proportional seat.”
Currently, Jo eyes nominations in a slate dubbed “6 Mountains 1 Flat,” covering Busan, Ulsan, Asan, Gwangju, Ansan, and Pyongtaek, or a narrower “3 Mountains 1 House” focusing on Busan, Ansan, Gwangju, and Pyongtaek.
Jo’s aide, Jo Dae-pyo, appeared on SBS on January 31, stating, “By placing a pivotal figure in the heart of six islands and shouldering the heavy load on Yeommot, we will forge a new path for the public by mid-April.”
Party Chair’s Firm Stance
Lee Ui-dong countered that Pyongtaek remains secure, noting, “Pyongtaek isn’t at risk in the 6 Mountains 1 Flat or 3 Mountains 1 House scenarios.” He added, “Selecting via Pyongtaek aligns perfectly, especially with two other representatives voicing support. If needed, it’s the right fit.”
Hwang Gyowan, a key influencer pushing Pyongtaek alongside Reps. Kim Jae-yeon and Jin Bo-dang, forms a core group of four advocates.
Rival Challenges Heat Up
People Power Party’s Han Dong-hoon also targets Jo. Han, on SNL Korea on January 28, quipped, “Korea, I’m Dong-hoon, so stop nagging and stay put.” He continued, “I have no reason to feel pity, but that makes it even more pitiful.” Han leverages his Busan district roots to counter Jo’s momentum.
Jo responded on YTN Radio January 1, “Dragging my wife into this reeks of low tactics.” He remarked, “Receiving unanimous Capital Region support? That’s 100% insider talk from Busan.”
Experts deem Jo’s multi-district pursuit a calculated boost for opposition momentum and voter turnout in hard-fought areas. Jo emphasized, “Numbers alone won’t sway Dong-hoon; even Busan cheers are at risk without bold outreach.” He affirmed, “Wherever Jo runs, he draws crowds from the public and Citizens’ Power alike— that’s the momentum.”
