Jung Won-oh, a preliminary candidate for Seoul mayor from the Democratic Party of Korea, responded to criticism from rival candidates over the cancellation of a TBS debate, stating he would "participate in any number of debates if the party's election management committee organizes additional ones."
Speaking to reporters after a press conference at the National Assembly Communication Center on the 11th, Jung said, "The Democratic Party's election committee has confirmed three debates and two joint discussions. I don't think that's insufficient."
Fellow Democratic Party preliminary candidates for Seoul mayor had criticized Jung for not participating in a TBS citizen debate that was being organized separately from official party debates, putting the event at risk of cancellation.
Preliminary candidate Park Joo-min expressed "deep regret" on social media, stating, "A candidate who claims to take responsibility for the lives of 10 million citizens has an obligation to prove their vision more in public forums where citizens are watching." Preliminary candidate Jeon Hyun-hee also urged Jung to attend additional debates, saying, "If you want to become the Democratic Party's candidate, having the ability and courage to confidently participate in debates and verification is fundamental." Candidate Kim Young-bae added, "This debate is particularly disappointing as it was organized by TBS, the only broadcaster exclusively for Seoul citizens."
The Democratic Party's election committee had previously announced it would hold a total of three debates for Seoul mayoral preliminary candidates. Soh Byung-hoon, chairman of the central party's election committee, said there would be "one in the preliminary primary, one in the main primary, and one in the runoff—three total." The committee has indicated it would allow additional debates if all candidates agree. Jung has maintained he will only attend debates organized by the election committee.
Regarding Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon's demands for the People Power Party leadership to "sever ties with Yoon," Jung said, "If this isn't just an election stunt, I expect more substantive and sincere actions going forward. Citizens will be able to judge whether this is a one-time election tactic or genuine change based on such practical actions."
During his press conference, Jung declared, "I will end Oh Se-hoon's incompetent showcase administration and implement Jung Won-oh's effective, pragmatic governance to create a Seoul where citizens are the owners, where taxes are well spent, and which stands as Asia's economic and cultural capital and a global G2 city."
