Oh Se-hoon Supports Sejong Mayor's Hunger Strike, Saying "Political Logic Blocks Citizens' Lives"

"Shared Suffering Memories... Full Cuts Including Past Seoul Run"

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon expressed his support for Sejong Mayor Choi Min-ho, who began a hunger strike protest on the 6th in opposition to budget cuts for the Garden City Expo and the Light Festival.

On the 9th, Mayor Oh wrote on Facebook, "I heard the news that the budget for the Garden City Expo and the Light Festival was blocked due to the political situation of a minority ruling party, leading to the decision to go on a hunger strike. While I fully understand that decision, it pains my heart." He added, "I believe the determination and will to keep campaign promises are never light matters."

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon is giving a greeting at the 'Seoul Fintech Week 2024 Conference' held on the 8th at the Conrad Hotel in Yeouido, Seoul. Photo by Kang Jin-hyung aymsdream@

Mayor Oh then shared his own experience, recalling a sense of shared hardship. He said, "Three years ago, when the Seoul Metropolitan Council was extremely divided with a minority ruling party, I still vividly remember the frustration and helplessness I felt when essential campaign projects for citizens such as 'Seoul Run,' 'Wrist Doctor 9988,' and 'Didimdol Income' were completely cut for political reasons." He emphasized, "Political logic must not stand in the way of citizens' lives."

He continued, "The Light Festival and the Garden City Expo are not just simple events but important projects that embody Sejong City's future vision." He urged, "I hope the Sejong City Council will cooperate with a broader perspective so that these projects are not derailed by political conflicts."

Finally, he added, "Cooperation with the council is never an easy path. However, I believe that with the determination and will the mayor has shown for Sejong City, this crisis will ultimately be overcome and a better path will be taken."