Woo Sang-ho, the Democratic Party candidate for Gangwon Governor, is likely to win the June 3 local elections, with Kim Jin-tae of the People Power Party conceding the race.
As of 4:15 a.m. on June 4, with over 90% of the votes counted, Woo is leading Kim by more than 20,000 votes.
During the campaign, Woo emphasized that he was the candidate chosen by President Lee Jae-myung, appealing for support. Despite facing criticism during a TV debate for not being well-acquainted with Gangwon, he gained momentum thanks to the stability narrative surrounding the Lee Jae-myung administration.
With his victory appearing imminent, Woo stated, "I will implement the plans I have envisioned for a transformative change in Gangwon one by one."
He added, "I will work with a spirit of unity, even with those who did not support me, and I will walk steadily for the people of Gangwon."
As Kim's defeat became apparent, he released a statement saying, "I humbly accept the choice of the people of Gangwon. I will never forget the warmth of the residents who supported me during the campaign."
Woo, a four-term lawmaker from Cheorwon, has previously served as the first Chief of Staff to President Lee Jae-myung.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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