Gyeonggi Governor Candidate Yang Hyang-ja Bets on Tech Expertise and Regional Knowledge

Yang Hyang-ja, a candidate for Gyeonggi Province Governor representing the People Power Party, presents herself as a uniquely qualified contender, leveraging her extensive background in the semiconductor industry and her 41-year residency in the province. In an interview, Yang confidently stated, "No Gyeonggi Province candidate understands advanced industries better than I do, and I know Gyeonggi Province inside and out." She positions herself as the definitive choice for a region that serves as the 'heart' of South Korea's economy, particularly its vital semiconductor sector, which accounts for a significant portion of the nation's added value and sales.

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I am an expert in advanced industries. Gyeonggi Province is the heart of South Korea, responsible for 84.6% of the domestic semiconductor industry's added value and 76% of its sales.

Yang frames the gubernatorial race as a direct confrontation between her vision and that of her opponent, Choo Mi-ae of the Democratic Party. She characterizes the election as a battle between "pro-Chung [Choo Mi-ae] supported by the Democratic Party" and herself, Yang Hyang-ja, who has "broken through the resistance of pro-Yoon [President Yoon Suk-yeol]." This framing suggests that Yang's candidacy represents a departure from entrenched political factions and a move towards a more meritocratic and forward-looking leadership. She pointedly criticizes Choo Mi-ae's political style, implying that her opponent's battles have been self-serving rather than for the public good, even earning her the nickname 'Mother of Conservatism' – a label Yang intends to solidify by defeating her.

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Ms. Choo's public recognition has peaked as 'dislike.' She is a born fighter, but the public knows well whether her fights were truly for the people or for her own advancement and influence.

With a focus on economic revitalization and balanced regional development, Yang's platform centers on achieving a per capita regional GDP of 100 million won for Gyeonggi Province. She aims to replicate the high-value production structures seen in places like Taiwan's TSMC by developing semiconductor clusters and ensuring rapid, error-free decision-making in the age of AI. Yang also touches upon party dynamics, suggesting that her nomination signifies the People Power Party's commitment to change and innovation, contrasting it with the Democratic Party's perceived arrogance. While open to potential unification talks with other candidates, she emphasizes the need for shared priorities in economic growth and countering the Democratic Party's influence.

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The fact that Yang Hyang-ja was selected as the Gyeonggi Province gubernatorial candidate itself proves that the People Power Party has entered a path of bold change and innovation.