The People Power Party has accused Jeong Won-o, the Mayor of Seongdong District in Seoul, of being a land speculator as referred to by President Lee Jae-myung, who stated that agricultural lands not being farmed should be sold off. On social media, lawmaker Kim Jae-seop suggested that Jeong's acquisition of agricultural land at a very young age raises questions about his farming credentials and whether he meets the criteria of a genuine farmer as outlined by President Lee's policies against land speculation. Kim emphasized that owning agricultural land without actively cultivating it can be considered as engaging in speculation, suggesting that Jeong should be the subject of thorough investigation under the President's proposed policy.

In response, Mayor Jeong contested these allegations, asserting that the land in question was purchased by his grandparents long before the enactment of relevant agricultural laws. He stated that this land, which has been registered in his name, has been legitimately used for farming by his family, although he admitted that due to its inaccessibility, farming is no longer possible. Jeong defended himself by highlighting the legal basis for the ownership of the land, asserting that prior regulations do not retroactively apply to land acquired before the laws were enacted. He expressed disappointment that his legitimate agricultural situation is being politicized by his opponents.

This controversy reflects broader concerns regarding land use and agricultural policy in South Korea, particularly in the wake of President Lee's commitment to crack down on land speculation. The discourse around Jeong's case involves the government's intent to investigate land ownership and usage and raises significant questions about transparency and accountability among political figures. It showcases the intersection between legal land ownership and political narratives, setting a precedent for how land speculation may be tackled in the political arena as elections approach.