Jeongeup Mayoral Primary Heats Up Over Population and Economic Solutions

Amidst the contest among five preliminary candidates for the Democratic Party of Korea's Jeongeup mayoral nomination, allegations regarding one candidate's potential violation of the Land Act have surfaced, introducing a new variable into the race. The candidates unanimously identified the region's declining population and economic vitalization as their foremost priorities.

Candidate Kim Dae-jung proposed measures to secure youth employment and form a southwestern economic community by fostering collaboration with the neighboring cities of Gochang and Buan. Ahn Soo-yong suggested establishing a 'cultural economy city' that leverages Jeongeup's heritage to create tourism and jobs. Lee Sang-gil outlined plans for livelihood support payments and urban basic income, along with the construction of a youth hostel equipped with convention facilities. Lee Hak-soo pledged to create a knowledge industry center within the advanced science industrial complex to lay the groundwork for youth entrepreneurship. Choi Do-sik committed to nurturing new industries and establishing a 'Regional Extinction Response Bureau' within the Jeongeup City Hall.

Allegations related to the Land Act involving Lee Hak-soo, the incumbent Jeongeup Mayor, have impacted the primary race. Mayor Lee has maintained that there are no legal issues concerning the Land Act allegations. However, upon confirmation that farmland was sold on April 2nd, just before the main primary, four preliminary candidates—Ahn Soo-yong, Kim Dae-jung, Choi Do-sik, and Lee Sang-gil—raised questions about the discrepancy between his explanations and his actions.