Former Vice Minister Kim Sung-bum wins Seogwipo National Assembly by-election
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Kim Sung-bum of the Democratic Party is confirmed to have won the by-election for the National Assembly seat in Seogwipo, Jeju.
- Kim, a former Vice Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, was strategically nominated by his party.
- He pledged to use his public service experience to develop Seogwipo.
Kim Sung-bum of the Democratic Party has secured victory in the National Assembly by-election for Seogwipo City, Jeju Province. As of early Wednesday, with over 91% of votes tallied, Kim held a commanding lead over his opponent, Ko Ki-cheol of the People Power Party.
The by-election was triggered by the departure of incumbent three-term lawmaker Wi Seong-gon, who ran for Jeju governor. The Democratic Party strategically nominated Kim, a former Vice Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries and a native of Seogwipo, for the constituency.
Kim expressed his gratitude to the citizens, stating, "I believe this victory is a mandate from the citizens to further develop Seogwipo and create greater opportunities." He emphasized his commitment to dedicating his 32 years of public service experience and expertise gained in central government roles to the betterment of Seogwipo.
His win is expected to strengthen the Democratic Party's representation in Jeju and reflects voter confidence in his platform focused on regional development and leveraging his administrative background for local benefit.
I believe this victory is a mandate from the citizens to further develop Seogwipo and create greater opportunities. I will now use my 32 years of public service experience and the expertise I gained in central government solely for Seogwipo.
Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.