'Gwangjin-eul', cooled by Chu's withdrawal from the race, reignited by Go Myeong-jeong and Oh Se-hoon

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Nahum] With the showdown between former Blue House spokesperson Go Minjung and former Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon in 'Seoul Gwangjin-eul' confirmed, the district has once again emerged as a key battleground in the April 15 general election.

On the 19th, the Democratic Party of Korea approved the results of the second strategic nomination candidate selection by the Strategic Nomination Committee at the Supreme Council meeting. Accordingly, former spokesperson Go's strategic nomination for Gwangjin-eul was also finalized.

As a face-off between two highly recognized figures is scheduled, evaluations suggest that another big match has been set in Seoul following the presidential candidates' clash in Jongno, Seoul.

Immediately after the nomination was confirmed, former spokesperson Go expressed her determination on Facebook, saying, "Nothing can be gained without facing the challenge." She targeted former Mayor Oh, stating, "The real fight begins now. It won't be easy," adding, "Especially since the opposing candidate has extensive political and life experience."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Originally, Gwangjin-eul was considered a tough district for the conservative opposition, as it was the constituency where Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae achieved five terms. From the 15th general election in 1996, held right after the district was first established, until the 20th general election in 2016, no conservative party candidate had ever been elected as a member of the National Assembly in 20 years. This was also the reason why 'fighter' former Mayor Oh chose Gwangjin-eul.

With Minister Choo's announcement not to run, Gwangjin-eul has instead become a tough district for the ruling party. Former Mayor Oh was elected as the party branch chairman of Gwangjin-eul early last year and has been cultivating the constituency for the past year. Moreover, he is regarded as having greater political weight than former spokesperson Go, being classified as a potential presidential contender in the conservative camp.

For former Mayor Oh personally, this general election is a critical political crossroads. After experiencing bitter setbacks such as resigning as Seoul mayor, losing in Jongno in the 20th general election, and defeat in party leadership contests, a victory would serve as an opportunity to solidify his position as a presidential candidate once again. However, if he loses to a newcomer who has just entered politics, it could leave another fatal blemish on his career. It is also clear that this would cast a shadow over any future presidential bids.

In a statement released the day before, former Mayor Oh said, "Gwangjin is a place with many tasks to be done," adding, "The ruling and opposition parties will sometimes compete and sometimes cooperate on how to further develop Gwangjin-eul and how to meet the expectations of the people through politics they desire. I will approach the election with a sincere but fierce mindset."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.