"It Only Leads to Arguments"... Chungnam's True Sentiments Hide Deeper After Martial Law [Reportage]

Unpredictable Voter Sentiment After Martial Law

A Traditional Conservative Stronghold,

But Growing Opposition to Martial Law

During a visit to Cheonan and Asan in Chungnam on May 11, a strong sense of "conservative silence" was palpable. Disappointment lingered in the aftermath of the martial law situation. On the other hand, the local community, which has become younger due to the establishment of large-scale industrial complexes and an influx of newcomers, seemed to be experiencing a new wave of change. These two cities, with a combined population approaching one million and leading public opinion in Chungnam, are undergoing noteworthy changes.

In the 9th Nationwide Local Elections scheduled for June 3, Park Suhyun from the Democratic Party of Korea, the incumbent Kim Taehum from the People Power Party, and Lee Eunchang from the Reform New Party have declared their candidacies for the governor of Chungnam.

Compared to other regions, Chungnam was notably conservative about revealing voting preferences. Mr. Myung, who said he was an ethics teacher before retiring, shared, "Even between parents and children, talking politics at the dinner table can lead to raised voices and arguments. Although I used to support the conservatives, now I have no intention of voting."

Jung, a public servant in his 20s, said, "People generally avoid talking about politics with each other." At Cheonan Central Market, Mr. Ko (87) and Lee Wonsoon (68) stated, "It's a secret, so we'll decide at the polling station," adding, "President Lee Jaemyung is doing well, but if another candidate appears who can do an even better job, I'll vote for that person." Mr. Shin (48) commented, "Kim's administration over the past four years did not give hope to the residents," but also said, "For the remaining term, I will carefully review the party's platform, pledges, and policies before making a decision," choosing his words cautiously.

Chungnam has generally been favorable to the conservative bloc. However, the public sentiment encountered that day was different. Heo Jonggun (45), who has run a shoe store at Cheonan Central Market for the past 10 years, said, "I've supported the People Power Party until now, but after the martial law situation, you get criticized if you show support for them. I want to support the Lee Jaemyung administration." Kim Jinsu (67) said, "Since the Hannara Party days, I've voted for the opposition to keep the ruling party in check, but this time, I can't vote for the 'rebellion party.'"

However, there was also significant sentiment in favor of Kim's administration. Kim (49), a resident of Asan, said, "I consider it important how well campaign pledges are kept. I have expectations for Governor Kim." Jeon (80), a local merchant, said, "I think the person who has already served as Chungnam governor will do a good job." Byun (53) commented, "It seems that Kim has worked hard and done well so far." Kim (60), a citizen of Cheonan, added, "The ruling party now holds the legislative, judicial, and executive branches," emphasizing the need for checks and balances.

There were also strong voices expressing the intention to vote for the ruling party's candidate to support the central government. Sung (52), a resident of Asan, said, "Because the Lee Jaemyung administration is from the Democratic Party, I think Park will be able to secure more budget funds." Han Eunyoung (56), a resident of Cheonan, said, "I believe Park will do well as part of a 'one team' with President Lee Jaemyung."

Kim (60), who has operated a snack shop at Cheonan Central Market for 13 years, said, "Talking to younger customers, I can feel that the number of Democratic Party supporters has increased." Bang Jeyeol (62) commented, "Even in Chungnam, areas like Yesan, Hongseong, and Buyeo, with large elderly populations, remain conservative, but in Cheonan, Asan, and Dangjin, where there are many younger workers, the Democratic Party seems to have about 70% support."