[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyemin] As the Busan mayoral by-election scheduled for April next year approaches, the candidates from the People Power Party are gradually coming into focus. With the primary rules announced and the election drawing near, candidates are beginning to officially declare their candidacies through public activities one by one. On the 23rd, former lawmaker Lee Eon-ju stepped forward.
Former lawmaker Lee will hold a publication commemorative event for the 'Busan Independence Declaration' at 2 p.m. in Yeouido, Seoul. This event effectively serves as an official declaration of his candidacy for the Busan mayoral by-election. During the conference-style event, he plans to present a blueprint for Busan's development through expert keynote speeches and discussions. Lee is known to emphasize local decentralization, stating that "Busan is losing vitality as it is increasingly neglected by the central government."
Kim Jong-in, the emergency committee chairman, will also attend the event. Lee plans to hold another publication commemorative event in Busan on the 28th.
Earlier that day at 11 a.m., former lawmaker Lee Jin-bok officially declared his candidacy for the by-election in Busan. Previously, on the 19th, he expressed his intention to run as a presenter at the 'Towards a Better World (Mapo)' forum led by former lawmaker Kim Moo-sung. In his declaration, Lee emphasized, "I will completely transform Busan," adding, "With my experience in restoring Oncheoncheon as an eco-friendly urban stream, I will identify problems on-site and communicate directly with the people." He further stated, "To reclaim power in 2022, we must win the Busan mayoral election," appealing for support by saying, "I am the right person to unify the scattered support base."
Within the People Power Party, former lawmaker Park Min-sik has already declared his candidacy. Former lawmaker Yoo Ki-jun also expressed his intention to run through a conservative YouTube channel. Along with former lawmakers Lee Jin-bok and Lee Eon-ju officially entering the race, Professor Park Hyung-joon of Dong-A University is expected to announce his candidacy early next month. Lawmaker Seo Byung-soo is also reportedly considering running.
There are six candidates being discussed, among whom former lawmaker Lee Eon-ju is the only female candidate. Three candidates will advance to the main primary, and the application of additional points for female candidates is expected to influence the outcome. The People Power Party plans to form a nomination management committee next month and begin the primary process, including the decision on whether to apply additional points for female candidates.
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