Park Hyung-deok, the People Power Party candidate for Dongducheon mayor, won re-election in the 9th nationwide local elections.
Based on vote counts as of 1:30 a.m. Wednesday, Park secured 55.14% of the vote, defeating Democratic Party candidate Lee In-gyu, who received 44.85%.
In his victory speech, Park said, "This victory is not a win for me personally or for any particular party, but a precious choice by citizens for a better future for Dongducheon." He called it "a great victory."
"I will value not only the wishes of those who supported me but also those of citizens who chose other candidates," he stressed. "The election is now over. We must move beyond conflict and division toward an era of harmony and unity," he added, signaling a path of integration.
Regarding the direction of his second term, Park said, "I will steadily complete the major projects pursued during my first term," presenting improvements in citizens' quality of life, regional economic revitalization, job creation, education and welfare enhancement, and building a safe city as core tasks.
He particularly emphasized, "I will devote all my capabilities to securing new growth engines for Dongducheon and building a sustainable city where future generations can live with hope."
"I will not lose my original commitment and will be a mayor who communicates with citizens on the ground and proves results through outcomes," Park said. "Together with our citizens, I will build a more developed Dongducheon and a happier Dongducheon."
