Former Buyeo County chief Park Jeong-hyun (Democratic Party), who had announced his bid for governor of South Chungcheong Province, said on March 10 that he has decided to withdraw from the local election after careful deliberation.
At a press conference held at the provincial government press center, Park said he reached the decision after hearing residents’ appeals to unite with fellow local figures rather than compete against them.
“Politicians do not exist to pursue personal ambition; they are public servants,” Park said, adding that he has chosen to lend his support to efforts aimed at strengthening the Democratic Party’s overall capacity and competitiveness.
He said he has not yet determined his next steps.
Park’s withdrawal is expected to narrow the Democratic Party primary to Representative Park Su-hyun, former South Chungcheong Governor Yang Seung-jo, and former Seocheon County chief Na So-yeol.
