Gwangju’s Political Landscape Shifts: Why Mayor Moon Declined to Run for Special City Mayor
Daniel Kim Views
During a press conference held in the situation room on the second floor of the North District Office, Mayor Moon stated, “I had prepared for a ‘New Gwangju’ with the mission of addressing the livelihood issues of Gwangju citizens. However, due to changes in the political landscape and my own limitations, I have decided not to run.”
Moon emphasized, “I will not participate in the North District Mayor election in the upcoming local elections on June 3rd, nor will I contend for the integrated Jeonnam-Gwangju Special Mayor position.”
Regarding his earlier intention to resign as district mayor to run for city mayor, which he later withdrew, Moon expressed, “I sincerely apologize to everyone who experienced confusion due to my withdrawal of resignation.”
Moon also reaffirmed his commitment to work tirelessly for the practical integration of Gwangju and Jeonnam.
He remarked, “Gwangju deserves to be treated as a sanctuary of democracy. It should transform from a city losing its youth to a thriving, productive metropolis. The first step towards this transformation is administrative integration.” He added, “Understanding that integration is not the end but the beginning, I will dedicate myself fully to the practical integration of Gwangju and Jeonnam until the very end.”
Furthermore, he expressed gratitude to the citizens and supporters who shared his vision for a new Gwangju, stating, “I bow my head in thanks to those who supported me. My decision not to run should be seen not as an end, but as a new beginning. I will fulfill my responsibilities until the very end.”
When asked about his support for potential candidates for the Jeonnam-Gwangju Special Mayor position, he responded, “We need someone who can effectively represent both Gwangju and Jeonnam as the special mayor. It would be ideal if a person with exceptional abilities, capable of securing significant benefits for the region, steps forward. I will support such a candidate.”
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