[Point Economy] On May 5, the 104th observance of Children’s Day, Dongrak Park in Imsu-dong, Gumi, North Gyeongsang, was packed with families enjoying the holiday.
Under clear skies and amid the sound of children at play, Kim Sang-dong, who is running for superintendent of North Gyeongsang Province, visited the park and concentrated on courting voters.
Kim toured the Children’s Day events inside Dongrak Park, shook hands with attendees one by one, and carried out an energetic campaign.
Eschewing a suit for more casual campaign attire to appear approachable, he moved through the event listening closely to voters’ concerns.
Rather than merely handing out business cards, Kim sat down on picnic mats beside parents and engaged in substantive conversations about the state of education in North Gyeongsang and the prospects for their children, drawing noticeable attention.
A parent at the event, identified as Lee (38, Gwangpyeong-dong, Gumi), said, “Having the superintendent candidate come in person and listen to concrete concerns about our children’s education and care makes him feel much closer,” describing the atmosphere at the park.
In discussions with parents, Kim said, “The superintendent’s primary responsibility is to create an educational environment where children can freely dream and have the resources to make those dreams real.” He added, “I will ensure safe schools that parents can trust and shape North Gyeongsang education so every child’s individuality is respected.”
He continued, “The bright smiles we saw today represent North Gyeongsang’s future. With the local elections just 29 days away, I will continue to be on the ground so that the voices we hear inform our policies.”
With the June 3 local elections roughly a month out, regional political circles interpret the visit as a strategic move to reinforce Kim’s image as an education expert while appealing directly to parents’ votes.
