The Democratic Party of Korea has nominated former presidential chief of staff for political affairs Woo Sang-ho as its candidate for Gangwon Province governor in the June 3 local elections, making him the party's first official nominee.
Former Democratic Party leader Song Young-gil has also rejoined the party three years after leaving amid a cash envelope distribution scandal.
Kim Yi-su, chairman of the party's nomination management committee, announced the results at a press conference on the 27th.
"Former chief Woo fought for democracy at the forefront of the June 1987 uprising and has dedicated 27 years to the party since joining in 1999," Kim said. "Gangwon Province faces major challenges including border region restrictions, population decline, and industrial transition. We determined he can meet these demands."
With Woo's uncontested nomination, the Gangwon gubernatorial race is expected to be a two-way contest against incumbent Governor Kim Jin-tae of the People Power Party.
Lee Kwang-jae, former Gangwon governor who had been considered a strong internal contender, announced on the 1st of this month that he would not run, saying he would "help former chief Woo achieve victory."
Meanwhile, the Democratic Party's supreme council approved Song's return to the party on the same day. Party insiders speculate Song may run in the by-election for Incheon Gyeyang-eul, his former constituency where former presidential spokesman Kim Nam-jun has also expressed intention to run.