Seoul Mayoral Candidates Clash Over Records in TV Debate

Politics|
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By Park Hyung-yoon
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Candidates pose for a photo ahead of the 2026 Seoul mayoral election candidates' debate held at SBS Prism Tower in Mapo-gu, Seoul, on the 28th. Yonhap - Seoul Economic Daily Politics News from South Korea
Candidates pose for a photo ahead of the 2026 Seoul mayoral election candidates' debate held at SBS Prism Tower in Mapo-gu, Seoul, on the 28th. Yonhap

Jung Won-oh, the Democratic Party of Korea's candidate for Seoul mayor, and Oh Se-hoon, the People Power Party candidate, faced off in a televised debate hosted by the National Election Commission.

In his opening remarks at the TV debate that began at 11 p.m. on the 28th, Jung said, "The Seoul mayor has consistently engaged in showy administration until now." He stressed, "Please change to me, Jung Won-oh, who will firmly and safely support the lives of Seoul citizens." He added, "Please judge candidate Oh Se-hoon's 10 years of incompetence. I, Jung Won-oh, will support citizens' lives safely and firmly."

Oh countered, "Over the past five years, I have done my utmost to normalize Seoul." He added, "Based on safety, I will surely complete a special city with a warmer and healthier quality of life."

Oh cited his achievements, saying, "Through the Speedy Integrated Planning, I opened a path for redevelopment and reconstruction, and through Seoul Learn, I restored the ladder of class mobility." He explained, "Design Seoul and the Han River Renaissance created pride and leisure in urban space, and the eco-friendly CNG buses and subway station screen doors were innovations that dramatically raised fine dust reduction and safety."

Both candidates also addressed the recent accident that occurred during the demolition of the Seosomun overpass. Jung said, "I pray for the repose of the victim who has passed away," adding, "I also extend deep condolences to the bereaved family and wish the injured a swift recovery."

Oh said, "There was a tragic accident recently during the demolition of the Seosomun overpass." He added, "I sincerely pray for the repose of the deceased and offer heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family."

Original reporting by Park Hyung-yoon for Seoul Economic Daily.

AI-translated from Korean. Quotes from foreign sources are based on Korean-language reports and may not reflect exact original wording.

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