An upset has emerged ahead of the Democratic Party of Korea's primary for Muan County governor in the June 3 local elections.
The Muan County public workers' union conducted an anonymous vote and chose preliminary candidate Na Gwang-guk over Kim San, the incumbent county governor seeking a third term after leading the county through the 7th and 8th terms of popular election.
The Na Gwang-guk camp said the decision carries significance beyond a simple endorsement, as the union chose a challenger over the sitting governor it has worked alongside for eight years.
The Muan County public workers' union officially declared its support for candidate Na on the 6th.
The endorsement was made through an anonymous vote based on voluntary participation by union members. The final decision was reached after confirming majority support.
Prior to the endorsement declaration, the union consulted the Muan County Election Commission to verify whether the action would violate the Public Official Election Act, ensuring procedural legality. The union then signed a policy agreement with Na, pledging joint efforts to protect the rights of public workers and improve their working conditions.
"Members freely chose the candidate who can substantively reflect the voices from the field," the Muan County public workers' union said. "In the anonymous vote, preliminary candidate Na ranked first with a majority of votes."
The union explained the reason for its endorsement, saying, "As people working within the same organization, a consensus formed that equal treatment and a fair work environment are needed." It added, "We hope the policy agreement does not remain a mere declaration but leads to actual changes in the workplace."
Some observers note that the union's endorsement highlights Na Gwang-guk's growing stature as a candidate, as he has been leading the policy agenda by presenting key pledges alongside plans to develop future growth engines for the Muan region.
"Workers on the front lines who sustain public services should not face discrimination in treatment and working conditions while working within the same organization," Na said. "I will make substantive improvements to the systems and environment so that public workers receive fair treatment." He added, "I will build a Muan where working people are fairly evaluated and the workplace is respected."