Gwangju and Jeonnam Independent Candidates Form Alliance... Declare Showdown with Democratic Party

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Yoon Jamin] Independent candidates in the Gwangju and Jeonnam regions, strongholds of the Democratic Party of Korea, are drawing attention as they unite to create a political storm.

On the morning of the 16th, independent candidates for basic local government heads and metropolitan council members in Gwangju and Jeonnam held a press conference at the Gwangju Metropolitan Council, forming an alliance and declaring a showdown with the Democratic Party.

The 15 candidates include Seo Daeseok, candidate for Gwangju Seo-gu District Mayor; Lee Youngjun, candidate for Suncheon Mayor; Lim Youngchan, candidate for Yeosu Mayor; Park Hongryul, candidate for Mokpo Mayor; Moon Seonyong, candidate for Gwangyang Mayor; Jeong Yeongdeok, candidate for Muan County Governor; Jeon Wanjun, candidate for Hwasun County Governor; Bae Yongtae, candidate for Yeongam County Governor; Kang Jongman, candidate for Yeonggwang County Governor; Go Bonggi, candidate for Sinan County Governor; Sa Sunmun, candidate for Jangheung County Governor; Kim Heesoo, candidate for Jindo County Governor; Jeong Hyuntaek, candidate for Gurye County Governor; Kim Geumrim, candidate for Gwangju City Council; and Song Hyeongil, candidate for Gwangju City Council.

They stated, "In this local election nomination process, the Democratic Party had no standards or principles, and it was neither fair nor just. Criticism from local media and complaints from residents have not ceased."

They continued, "We can no longer just watch the Democratic Party without democracy, and to correct the wrongs and restore the collapsed fairness, justice, and democracy, we have devoted our lives and left the Democratic Party we so dearly love with a heart full of anguish. We stand here to unite and receive the judgment of the local people with consolidated strength and to surely achieve victory."

They added, "Please wield the whip to judge the politicians who, after dedicating the democratic government achieved through the Candlelight Revolution for only five years to conservative rule, seek only their own selfish interests without reflection. We ask for your support and encouragement for the independent alliance to raise awareness, straighten the ailing and fallen Democratic Party, and help it be reborn as a hopeful Democratic Party."