Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon Enters PPP Primary, Calls for Party Reform

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon officially entered the People Power Party (PPP) primary for the upcoming local elections on March 17, 2026, while simultaneously urging party leaders to implement internal reforms. His decision comes after a period of resistance and negotiation, easing tensions within the PPP and allowing the race for Seoul’s mayoral seat to proceed.

A Shift in Stance

Oh had previously declined to participate in the primary process, demanding significant changes in the party’s direction and leadership. He formally submitted his candidacy application at a press conference held at Seoul City Hall, stating his commitment to both the citizens of Seoul and the PPP. “I am registering as a candidate for Seoul mayor out of a sense of responsibility to the people of Seoul and a commitment to put the party before myself,” Oh said, according to The Korea Herald.

Demands for Reform

The mayor’s initial hesitation stemmed from concerns about the party’s leadership and its alignment with certain political factions. He specifically called for a firm stance against connections with far-right YouTubers and a broader reassessment of the party’s direction, as reported by The Korea JoongAng Daily. Oh advocated for the establishment of an “innovation election committee” with substantial authority, comparable to an emergency leadership body, to drive these changes.

Party Response and Unity

PPP leader Jang Dong-hyuk welcomed Oh’s entry into the race, characterizing it as the beginning of a full-scale primary process and expressing hope for a unified front ahead of the June 3 local elections. UPI reported that the party leadership signaled a focus on both reform and maintaining stability. The PPP has adopted a resolution opposing the political return of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, though Oh has argued that personnel reforms haven’t gone far enough.

Looking Ahead

While Oh’s decision to run has temporarily alleviated internal tensions, underlying divisions within the PPP remain. Observers suggest that the party’s ability to unite behind a single candidate will depend on how the leadership addresses Oh’s concerns in the coming weeks. The party plans to launch an innovation-focused campaign committee in late April after candidate nominations are finalized, as reported by The Chosun Ilbo.