Jung Wonoh to Oh Sehoon: "If All You Do Is Blame Park Wonsoon and the Government, Why Run for Mayor?"

Kwanhoon Debate at Korea Press Center on May 20
"He should take personal responsibility and apologize, not blame his predecessor"

Jung Wonoh, the Democratic Party of Korea's candidate for Seoul Mayor, commented on the "Park Wonsoon Season 2" narrative regarding Seoul's rising housing prices, saying, "I don't understand why Oh Sehoon, who has served as Seoul Mayor for five years, keeps blaming former Mayor Park Wonsoon." He added, "If all he is going to do is blame his predecessor and the government, I don't see the point of running for mayor again."

Jung Wono, the Democratic Party candidate for Seoul mayor, is delivering opening remarks at the "Seoul Mayor Candidate Invitation Kwanhun Debate" held on the 20th at the Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul. 2026.5.19 Photo by Kang Jinhyung

On the afternoon of May 20, 2026, following Oh's appearance, Jung participated in the Seoul Mayoral Candidate Invitational Kwanhoon Debate held at the Korea Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul. He remarked, "The mayor is the one responsible for the city. Instead of blaming predecessors, he should take personal responsibility and issue an apology."

Jung also pointed out, "Oh is once again repeating his pledge for balanced development between southern and northern Seoul, a promise he made four to five years ago." Jung continued, "I will push forward with the Seobu Line and Gangbuk Crossing Line projects." He added, "I have also proposed the Dongbu Line project as a new pledge. By creating a light rail line directly connecting Dongdaemun to Gangnam, we can further promote balanced development between the southern and northern parts of Seoul."

Regarding his pledge to temporarily reduce property tax for single-home retirees without income, Jung said, "The principle is to target retirees over the age of 60 who have no earned income or business income." He explained, "We will discuss the specific amount after the election, but we have agreed in principle to make the benefits as broadly available as possible."

Jung Won-oh, the Democratic Party candidate for Seoul mayor, is delivering opening remarks at the "Seoul Mayor Candidate Invitation Kwanhoon Debate" held at the Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul on May 19, 2026. Photo by Kang Jinhyung

Jung also responded to questions on politically charged issues. On the land transaction permit system, he stated, "I believe the system should be lifted once its objectives have been achieved." He added, "Whether the objective has been achieved will be determined based on accurate data; if the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the national government judge that the goal has been met, the system will be lifted." Regarding the long-term ownership special deduction, he explained, "It should be broadly recognized except in cases where there is clear speculative intent." He continued, "I will represent the citizens' perspective and advocate to the government and National Assembly for more extensive protections."

Jung emphasized, "The first key to enhancing Seoul's competitiveness is 'Seoulness,'" and said, "By utilizing the city's mountains, rivers, palaces, and streets, we can boost Seoul's distinct appeal." He went on, "Citizens living amid fierce competition want an administration that provides strong and safe support so they can focus on their daily lives and livelihoods." He stressed, "Seoul needs a mayor who delivers results not just through words and plans, but through proven achievements and skills."

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