Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon emphasized the need for rebuilding the conservative movement, which he claims is in crisis due to former President Yoon Suk-yeol's declaration of martial law. However, he stated that maintaining relationships with Yoon's supporters, known as the "Yoon Again" faction, is crucial.
In an interview with the Yomiuri Shimbun published on July 4, Oh assessed his victory in the June mayoral election as a reflection of the public's continued expectations for the conservative camp, despite the challenges following Yoon's controversial decision in December 2024.
He noted, "Former President Yoon made a wrong political judgment by declaring martial law, which has put the entire conservative movement in jeopardy. However, the public is not rejecting conservatism itself." Oh stressed that to regain trust, conservatism must embody sincerity, inclusiveness, and competence. He added, "We need to reach out to the socially vulnerable and build a foundation for sustainable growth. If we can demonstrate our ability to improve the quality of life for citizens through tangible results, conservatism can once again become a source of hope for the public."
Regarding the direction for rebuilding conservatism, Oh stated that both solidifying core support and expanding outreach to moderate voters are necessary. He explained, "While a party needs a solid base of core supporters, elections ultimately depend on how well we can secure undecided and moderate voters."
On the relationship with Yoon's supporters, he remarked, "We must maintain our connections. The relationship we need to sever is with Yoon's erroneous political judgments."
Oh also opened the door to potential alliances with independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon and Lee Jun-seok, the leader of the Reform Party. He said, "We should join forces with those who share similar political values and directions. This includes individuals mentioned today, as well as former floor leader Yoo Seung-min and lawmaker Ahn Cheol-soo, who supported us in the mayoral election."
When asked about the possibility of running in the 2030 presidential election, Oh stated, "There is always a possibility," but added that it would depend on the political situation at that time. He emphasized that the most important task now is to deliver results worthy of a fifth-term mayor.
Oh also expressed criticism regarding a bill that would facilitate the dismissal of criminal charges against President Lee Jae-myung. He warned, "While I understand the anxiety stemming from judicial risks, bringing out cards that should not be played will lead to a loss of political influence and negatively impact the next general election in 2028."
On South Korea-Japan relations, Oh praised the improvements made under the Yoon administration, stating that President Lee is managing relations with Japan better than in the past. He added, "Cooperation and communication should be strengthened not only between nations but also between the capitals of Seoul and Tokyo. I look forward to the visit of Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike to Seoul."
The Yomiuri Shimbun conducted a one-on-one interview with Mayor Oh at Seoul City Hall the previous day and reported on the discussion in both print and online formats.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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