Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon will announce his intent to run for president on Sunday, April 13, 2025, according to a report from Yonhap News Agency. This announcement comes at a crucial time for South Korea, as the country prepares for its presidential election scheduled for June 3, 2025. Oh's decision to enter the race follows the recent impeachment of former president Yoon Suk Yeol, which was upheld on April 4, 2025, stemming from a controversial martial law declaration made in December.
Oh Se-hoon, who is currently serving his fourth term as the mayor of Seoul, first took office in 2006. His upcoming announcement is set to take place at a location that holds symbolic significance, reflecting the policies he has implemented during his tenure aimed at aiding the underprivileged. While the exact venue has yet to be disclosed, Oh's team emphasizes that this setting will represent his vision for how these policies can be expanded nationwide.
In an interview with Reuters back in March, Oh expressed his commitment to addressing the needs of the less fortunate, a theme that is likely to resonate throughout his presidential campaign. As he prepares to step onto the national stage, the mayor's focus on social welfare is expected to be a central pillar of his platform.
The upcoming election is particularly significant given the political turbulence surrounding Yoon Suk Yeol's presidency. His impeachment has left a vacuum in leadership that candidates like Oh are eager to fill. The political landscape in South Korea has been characterized by intense scrutiny of leadership and governance, particularly in light of recent events.
Oh's long-standing political career and experience as the mayor of Seoul may provide him with a unique advantage as he vies for the presidency. His tenure has been marked by efforts to improve urban living conditions and implement policies that support vulnerable populations. This background could appeal to a electorate looking for stability and a focus on social issues in the wake of political upheaval.
As South Korea gears up for the election, candidates will need to navigate a complex political environment. Voter sentiment is likely to be influenced by the recent impeachment and the public's demand for accountability and transparency from their leaders. Oh's approach to these challenges will be closely watched as he makes his formal bid for the presidency.
With the election date approaching, the stakes are high for all candidates involved. Oh Se-hoon's announcement will mark the beginning of what promises to be a competitive race, as he seeks to position himself as a champion for the underprivileged and a leader capable of guiding South Korea into a new political era.
