Japanese Media Describes Mayor Oh as "A Leading Politician Raising Hopes for Conservative Reconstruction"

On July 4, a leading Japanese media outlet described Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon as "a prominent politician who, along with former leader Han Dong-hoon, is gathering expectations for the reconstruction of the conservative camp."

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon delivers his inauguration speech at the "40th Seoul Mayor Inauguration Ceremony" held at the multipurpose hall of Seoul City Hall on July 1, 2026. Photo by Kang Jin-hyung

Yomiuri Shimbun reported the previous day's interview with Mayor Oh at Seoul City Hall in Jung-gu, Seoul, stating, "Seoul, with a population of 9.3 million and serving as the political and economic center, is a position from which one can aspire to become the next president. Former President Lee Myung-bak also served as Seoul Mayor before becoming president." The article made this assessment.

The newspaper noted, "Mayor Oh took a critical stance from the outset regarding conservative figure former President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of martial law in 2024. In the mayoral election, he did not receive support from Jang Dong-hyuk, the party leader who is close to former President Yoon."

Meanwhile, in the interview with Yomiuri Shimbun, Mayor Oh stated, "Former President Yoon made a misguided political decision, which put conservatives in crisis," but added, "It does not mean that the public is rejecting conservatism itself. Conservatism can once again become a force that gives hope to the people."

Additionally, Mayor Oh argued that broad "unity" is necessary for the reconstruction of the conservative camp. Regarding alliances with figures such as former leader Han and Lee Jun-seok, leader of the Reform New Party, Mayor Oh said, "I will join forces with anyone who shares my political views." He also stressed the importance of "maintaining" a relationship with the supporters of former President Yoon.

When asked about a potential presidential bid in the future, Mayor Oh responded, "There is a possibility, but it depends on the political situation at that time," thus avoiding a definitive answer.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.