As South Korea prepares for the local elections on June 3rd, the four special cities of Gyeonggi Province—Suwon, Yongin, Goyang, and Hwaseong—are emerging as key battlegrounds. Collectively, these cities account for nearly one-third of Gyeonggi's total population of approximately 450,000, thus their outcomes are expected to play a crucial role in determining the next governor of Gyeonggi Province. Currently, Suwon and Hwaseong are under the leadership of the Democratic Party, while the People Power Party governs Yongin and Goyang, setting the stage for fierce electoral contests as incumbents seek re-election amidst challenged strategies from opposing parties.

In Suwon, a traditionally stronghold for the Democratic Party, Mayor Lee Jae-jun is running for re-election based on his established administrative authority, showing favorable polling results. Competing against him are prominent candidates from the Democratic Party, as well as numerous challengers from the People Power Party who are yet to present a formidable opponent. The major issues at stake include the relocation of the Suwon Military Airport and enhancement of public transportation networks, which are critical to local constituents.

In Hwaseong, the race for the title of 'special city mayor' is taking place for the first time, with current Mayor Jeong Myung-geun leading in polls among candidates including political veterans and challengers from the Democratic Party. With several candidates previously competing in the 2022 local elections, this time presents a renewed battleground where women leadership is also highlighted, with Kim Kyung-hee running to become the first female mayor of Hwaseong. However, the People Power Party is still in search of strong candidates to ensure competitive representation in these significant locales as the political landscape intensifies in the lead-up to the elections.