On January 10th, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon held a New Year’s press conference.
During the event, he sharply criticized the leadership of Jang Dong-hyuk, the head of the ruling People Power Party, as the 2026 local elections approach. Oh remarked, “There’s a divide over former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law – some say it was wrong, others argue it was necessary. These views are irreconcilable.” He added, “Jang’s excessive ambition has led to losing both perspectives and a decline in approval ratings.”
When questioned about the possibility of the opposition facing a significant defeat in the local elections, Oh stated, “The core issue stems from the side effects of Jang Dong-hyuk’s overreaching ambition.” He urged the party leadership to make prudent decisions, warning that “losing the metropolitan election could lead to a nationwide defeat in local elections.”
Regarding his intention to run for a fifth term as mayor, Oh was clear about his plans. “While there’s no rush as the party hasn’t announced the primary yet, my resolve should be evident,” he said. He added, “It’s somewhat premature and not particularly meaningful for an incumbent mayor to set a candidacy announcement date.” Oh emphasized, “This mayoral election is about whether we can maintain Seoul citizens’ pride, and it’s driven by my sense of duty to protect Seoul.”
Oh distanced himself from internal party challenges and potential defections. He asserted, “I am unequivocally committed to safeguarding Seoul, and I don’t foresee any unexpected developments.” He stressed, “I have absolutely no intention of leaving the party.” Oh criticized President Lee Jae-myung’s real estate policies as contradicting market principles. He commented, “I understand President Lee’s frequent remarks about multi-homeowners, but such measures are only effective for two to three months.” He added, “While it’s possible to pressure multi-homeowners, this approach contradicts sustainable market-based policies. Real estate is a commodity, and like any goods, it requires adequate supply. Policies that suppress and contract supply are unsustainable.” Recently, President Lee has issued strong messages targeting multi-homeowners, including increased transfer taxes and ending grace periods. Oh noted, “Some companies seek profits in the housing supply process. Creating an environment that sufficiently stimulates and attracts their profit-seeking motivation can lead to a sustainable policy of increased housing supply.” He cautioned, “Using pressure tactics for a few months may result in unintended consequences and dysfunction.”
Oh also intensified his criticism of Jeong Won-oh, the Seongdong District chief and potential Democratic Party mayoral candidate. Oh stated, “I can’t shake the feeling that he’s fundamentally aligned with the Democratic Party.” He added, “When former Mayor Park Won-soon announced the 35-story limit for Seongsu-dong development, Jeong raised no objections.”
However, Oh took responsibility for his lower support ratings compared to Jeong in a recent mayoral race poll. In a survey commissioned by Jo Won C&I on January 10th, Oh received 33.2% support, trailing Jeong’s 47.5% by 14.2 percentage points. (For more details, please consult the Central Election Poll Review Committee’s website.)
Oh acknowledged, “I take full responsibility for all poll-related matters. These results reflect my shortcomings.” He added, “I will reflect on this and monitor the situation closely.”
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport expressed strong disapproval of the announcement to halt construction on the Gwanghwamun Square Garden of Appreciation. Oh argued, “Stopping a legally progressing project that has gone through all necessary procedures, including Seoul City Council resolutions, is an excessive abuse of power.” He emphasized, “The Seoul mayor has the authority to notify implementation plans, and any deficiencies should be addressed through proper channels.” He added, “I believe the mayor, chosen by Seoul’s citizens, has taken steps to secure the budget, and there’s public consensus on the value of spaces symbolizing freedom and democracy.” He warned, “If excessive law enforcement occurs, Seoul City will have no choice but to exercise its right to resist.”
Most Commented