The People Power Party's (PPP) primary races for metropolitan governorships in the capital region have been engulfed by dual uncertainties: internal nomination disputes and ideological conflicts. The Gyeonggi governor race is generating increasing noise as the possibility of new candidates entering collides with pushback from existing contenders. In Seoul and Incheon, candidates are effectively pursuing "every man for himself" election strategies while keeping their distance from party leadership.
Cho Kwang-han, a PPP Supreme Council member, declared his candidacy for Gyeonggi governor at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, on Monday. "I stepped forward to turn around the election atmosphere and supply clear winning energy so our candidates can gain confidence that they have a fighting chance in their respective districts," Cho said.
However, political observers suggest Cho may not complete the primary race. After declaring his candidacy, Cho told reporters, "If there is someone who can lead the party to victory, I will not hesitate to meet with them. There is still someone I have in mind."
As the possibility of new candidates joining the Gyeonggi governor primary continues, existing contenders are increasingly voicing their discontent. Yang Hyang-ja, a PPP Supreme Council member, publicly criticized the nomination process in front of party leader Jang Dong-hyuk on Friday. "The nomination committee has been arbitrarily delaying candidate decisions and announcements while looking for higher-profile figures, thereby undermining the standing and competitiveness of existing applicants," Yang said.
In Seoul and Incheon, considered the biggest battlegrounds in this local election, candidates are also reviewing strategies that emphasize personal competitiveness over the party banner. At the first debate, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon said, "The current leadership has abandoned centrist expansion and tilted to one side. As someone who has long protected the party, I will defend our red banner." If selected as the final candidate, Oh is reportedly considering forming an independent campaign committee.
Similar currents are being detected in Incheon. At a PPP Supreme Council meeting held in Incheon on May 6, Rep. Yoon Sang-hyun urged decisive action from leadership, saying, "Party candidates are effectively fending for themselves, and while the party is presenting good policies, voters are not willing to listen." Party leader Jang responded, "It is a waste to spend precious time on internal party matters," bringing ideological conflicts to the surface.
Under these circumstances, Yoo Jeong-bok, seeking a third term as Incheon mayor, appears set to delay his candidate registration with the National Election Commission to maximize his incumbent advantage through the election period.
