Jeonnam Superintendent Kim Daejung Says Decision on Second Term Bid Will Come After Year-End

"Justifying Candidacy Requires Fulfilling Current Duties"
...A Cautious Approach

On December 9, Jeonnam Superintendent of Education Kim Daejung maintained a cautious stance regarding his potential candidacy in next year's superintendent election, stating, "I will make a decision after doing my best in the tasks given to me until the end of this year."

With the activities of preliminary candidates recently gaining momentum, there is growing interest in whether Kim will seek re-election. However, he made it clear that fulfilling his current responsibilities as superintendent is his top priority.

Former Jeonnam Superintendent of Education Kim Daejung expressed his position on running in next year's superintendent election at a press conference held at the Provincial Office of Education to announce the establishment plan for the "Jeonnam-type AI Talent Development Ecosystem." Photo by Lee Jungkyung

At a press conference held at the Jeonnam Provincial Office of Education to announce the establishment plan for the 'Jeonnam-type AI Talent Development Ecosystem,' Kim was asked about his plans to run in next year's superintendent election. He began by saying, "These days, I am asked that question very frequently."

He continued, "As candidates for the superintendent election have begun their activities, I am often asked whether I will run. Honestly, I do feel like giving a clear answer."

However, Kim emphasized, "As the current superintendent, I have ongoing work and responsibilities. I believe I can only justify announcing my candidacy to the residents of the province if I fulfill and complete these tasks well."

He added, "Until the end of this year, I will do my utmost in the work assigned to me. If the opportunity arises, I will seek various evaluations next year, listen to the opinions of those around me, and also hear the perspectives of journalists."

Kim stated, "After going through such a process, if I come to a decision, I will make it public. I ask for your understanding, even if my answer is not entirely satisfying."

Kim's remarks suggest that while he is leaving open the possibility of seeking a second term, he intends to prioritize completing his current policy initiatives and receiving evaluations from the public and the education community before making any formal announcement. With the superintendent election scheduled for June next year, the Jeonnam education sector is expected to pay close attention to his decision.