by Jung Seunghyun
Published 17 Apr.2026 17:55(KST)
Kwangguk Na, a pre-candidate who has advanced to the final round for Head of Muan County from the Democratic Party of Korea, has intensified his offensive by demanding a public policy debate with candidate San Kim.
Nakwangguk, Preliminary Candidate for the Governor of Muan County from the Democratic Party of Korea. Provided by Candidate's Campaign.
원본보기 아이콘On April 17, Na released a statement saying, "Policy verification in front of the county residents is not a choice but a duty," and added, "If one avoids the debate, that in itself will be an answer to the county residents."
He pointed out that San Kim did not participate in the live Q&A on CBS Radio on April 9, stating, "He already avoided an opportunity for verification once," and criticized, "A candidate who does not stand before the county residents is not qualified to lead the county administration."
He further stated, "It does not matter whether the format is a broadcast or a public debate, and the date and location can be decided by my opponent," emphasizing, "I am willing to participate anywhere as long as it is before the 100,000 county residents," thus effectively expressing his willingness to accept any conditions.
Na also emphasized, "Just like President Lee Jaemyung’s style of communication, politics today demands 'live communication' that responds and is verified on the spot," and added, "I will communicate directly with the county residents through open politics that does not hide."
He continued, "This election should be judged based on policies and visions, not on negativity," and officially requested the South Jeolla Provincial Party to arrange a fair policy debate.
Alongside this, he also continued his criticism of San Kim’s pledge to provide 100,000 won per person to all county residents.
Na asserted, "This pledge is similar in nature to the government’s high oil price compensation subsidies," and argued, "If the funding sources remain unclear, it could be a pledge that deceives the county residents." He added, "The funding sources and feasibility must be thoroughly verified through a debate."
Meanwhile, some in the region have raised the necessity of a public debate, saying, "It is difficult to sufficiently compare the candidates’ pledges since there has been no policy debate during the runoff process."
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