The upcoming local elections in South Korea may feature up to 10 by-elections, often referred to as a 'mini general election.'
In the upcoming local elections scheduled for June 3, 2023, South Korea is expected to hold up to 10 by-elections, which could be interpreted as a 'mini general election.' As of now, four by-elections have been confirmed in the electoral districts of national assembly members, including President Lee Jae-myung's constituency in Incheon and Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik's district in Chungnam. The by-elections will also include elections in areas where former Democratic Party members were declared ineligible due to Supreme Court rulings. Additionally, several legislators are anticipated to resign from their current positions to run for local office, suggesting that the total number of by-elections could grow significantly.
One of the key interests is centered around choosing a Democratic Party candidate for President Lee's electoral district in Incheon. Former Blue House spokesperson Kim Nam-jun has expressed his intent to run in this district after stepping down from his spokesperson role. Furthermore, Song Young-gil, the former Democratic Party leader recently acquitted of charges related to a money envelope scandal, is also rumored to be preparing his candidacy to reclaim a parliamentary seat in the by-elections. The outcomes in these areas could have significant implications for both the party's local strength and the upcoming political climate.
The candidacies of notable political figures such as Joko Joko, head of the reform party, and Han Dong-hoon, former leader of the People Power Party, are also being watched closely. Speculation surrounds their potential runs in the by-elections in districts like Gyeonggi's Pyeongtaek or areas in Daegu and Busan. The reform party has been vocal in advocating against allowing a Democratic Party candidate to be fielded in the two areas designated for by-elections due to the party's previous missteps. Meanwhile, reports suggest that former leader Han is actively considering his electoral strategy as he embarks on a nationwide tour to engage with voters, hinting at a possible focus on traditional conservative regions like Daegu and Busan.
