Cho Kuk Declares Candidacy in Pyeongtaek By-election, Vows to Be 'National Representative' Lawmaker

In a significant political development, Cho Kuk, the leader of the Rebuilding Korea Party, has thrown his hat into the ring for the upcoming National Assembly by-election in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province. As reported by Hankyoreh, Cho's announcement, made at a press conference in Pyeongtaek's Hambaksan Central Park, positions him as a candidate uniquely qualified to represent a city he describes as a 'national representative city' and an 'engine of growth' for South Korea. He passionately argued that Pyeongtaek, with its vital Pyeongtaek Port, key military installations, and robust industrial base, deserves a 'national representative' lawmaker – a role he believes he can fulfill despite acknowledging past shortcomings. His platform centers on elevating Pyeongtaek's local issues to the national agenda, promising to address critical infrastructure needs such as the new KTX Gyeonggi Southern Station and advanced Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems. Cho also tackled the sensitive issue of political alliances, reaffirming his commitment to inter-party cooperation for reform, even if it means fielding candidates that might cause friction with potential allies. This move is particularly noteworthy given the complex political landscape and the ongoing discussions about forming a unified front among progressive and reformist parties for the upcoming elections.

“

Pyeongtaek, the city that feeds the nation, needs a national representative lawmaker, and I am a national representative politician, despite my many shortcomings and mistakes.