Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon Registers for Local Elections; Deputy Mayor to Act as Mayor

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon has officially entered the race for the upcoming 9th National Simultaneous Local Elections, registering as a preliminary candidate for the Seoul mayoral seat. As per the Local Autonomy Act, his mayoral duties are suspended effective immediately, with First Deputy Mayor Kim Sung-bo stepping in to act as mayor. This transition marks the beginning of a period where the city's administration will be managed by an acting mayor until the election results are finalized.

The period of acting leadership will last until June 3rd, the election day, with Mayor Oh set to resume his duties at midnight on June 4th. Deputy Mayor Kim will oversee the city's affairs in accordance with relevant laws and ordinances. The decision to assign the acting mayoral role to the First Deputy Mayor was made considering that the position of Second Deputy Mayor is currently filled by an acting official. This ensures a stable administrative structure during the election campaign.

Mayor Oh has called upon all city officials to uphold strict political neutrality and remain dedicated to their tasks during this transitional phase. The city administration has also made personnel adjustments to ensure continuity, with Park Chan-gu, currently a special advisor to the mayor, nominated as the new Deputy Mayor for Political Affairs. This role is crucial for coordinating with the National Assembly, the City Council, media, and political parties. The Hankyoreh reports on this procedural step, noting the temporary shift in leadership as Seoul navigates the election period.

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During the period of acting leadership, public officials must maintain strict political neutrality and carry out their duties without wavering.