Oh Se-hoon Secures Historic Fifth Term as Seoul Mayor in Surprise Victory

South Korea’s capital city of Seoul has re-elected Oh Se-hoon as its mayor for a historic fifth term, marking a stunning political comeback for the conservative leader after a campaign marked by last-minute surges in support and contentious policy debates.

Unexpected Victory in a Tight Race

Oh Se-hoon, the incumbent mayor and a member of the People Power Party (PPP), narrowly defeated his Democratic Party (DP) rival in the June 3 mayoral election. Initial exit polls and early results suggested a loss, with Oh trailing by significant margins as votes were counted into the early hours of June 4. However, a late surge in support shifted the outcome, with Oh ultimately securing a 1% lead—approximately 60,000 votes—over his opponent, according to The Diplomat.

The victory was a surprise to many, as Oh had faced a challenging political landscape. His campaign focused on issues like real estate regulation, urban development, and criticism of the ruling DP’s policies. “The judgment of the people of Seoul is reflected in this election result, and it should serve as a warning to the president,” Oh stated after his win, referencing ongoing controversies surrounding President Lee Jae Myung’s administration.

A Political Career Shaped by Controversy and Resilience

Oh’s political journey has been anything but linear. A former environmental lawyer, he entered politics in 2000 and became Seoul’s youngest mayor at age 45 in 2006, a record that still stands. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize the city’s infrastructure and elevate its global profile, including Seoul’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Design in 2010.

However, his second term was fraught with challenges. In 2011, Oh faced widespread criticism for his dramatic stance against a free school lunch initiative, culminating in a tearful press conference where he kowtowed to voters. The referendum ultimately failed, and Oh resigned as mayor—a move that highlighted his willingness to defy party pressure but also drew accusations of political theatrics.

After a brief political hiatus in the early 2010s, Oh returned to public life in 2021 following the suicide of his predecessor, Park Won-soon, and was re-elected as mayor for a fourth term in 2022. His latest victory cements his status as one of South Korea’s most enduring political figures.

Policies and Controversies

Oh’s current term has been defined by ambitious urban development projects, including the controversial Hangang Bus ferry service, which faced technical failures and safety concerns before being suspended. He has also pushed for a skyscraper redevelopment near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jongmyo Shrine, a project that has drawn sharp criticism from heritage groups and sparked legal battles with government agencies.

His focus on real estate policies has also drawn mixed reactions. While property owners and developers have praised his deregulation efforts, tenants—over half of Seoul’s residents—have expressed frustration over rising rents and housing costs. Oh has positioned himself as a defender of homeowners, a stance that resonated with many voters in this election.

Challenges Ahead

Despite his victory, Oh’s fifth term is not without risks. He is currently under investigation for alleged illicit political funding, a case that could jeopardize his position if he is convicted of a crime carrying a sentence exceeding a fine of 1 million won (about $640). The Democratic Party holds a two-thirds majority in the Seoul City Council, which could limit his ability to pass key policies without compromise.

“Oh may gloat over his historic fifth term, but there are substantial limitations,” the original article noted. “His fifth term may not be as smooth as his previous ones.”

Why This Matters

Oh Se-hoon’s re-election reflects broader trends in South Korean politics, where voters are increasingly prioritizing stability over change. His ability to navigate a fragmented political landscape and maintain support despite controversy underscores his resilience. However, his tenure will continue to be shaped by the tensions between urban development, cultural preservation, and the demands of a rapidly evolving electorate.

As Seoul moves forward, the city’s next chapter will hinge on how Oh balances these competing priorities—and whether his fifth term can redefine his legacy in the eyes of the public.