Presidential Ally Lee Jae-myung Eyes Stark Contrast in Democratic Mayoral Races

## Ulsan Mayoral Race Sees Crowded Democratic Field: Ahn Jae-hyun Announces Candidacy On October 28, 2025, Ahn Jae-hyun, former head of the Roh Moo-hyun Foundation's Ulsan Committee, officially announced his intention to run as the Democratic Party candidate in next year's Ulsan mayoral election. Ahn held a press conference at the Ulsan City Council Press Center to declare his candidacy and present his vision for change and development in the Ulsan community. Ahn's announcement, joining Sung In-soo, former chairman of the Democratic Party's Ulsan chapter, creates a multi-candidate race within the Democratic Party, drawing attention to the upcoming candidate selection process. Ahn applied for reinstatement to the Democratic Party on October 20th, marking the beginning of his campaign preparations. His return and candidacy are expected to intensify the internal competition and significantly impact the political landscape of Ulsan. During the press conference, Ahn outlined specific policies and a vision for Ulsan's future, seeking support. Ahn Jae-hyun's entry into the Ulsan mayoral race further complicates the Democratic Party's competitive dynamics. With Sung In-soo already having announced his candidacy, Ahn's participation is expected to fragment the party's support base and intensify the candidate selection process. Both candidates are expected to compete fiercely, leveraging their respective strengths and support bases, while the Democratic Party's Ulsan chapter aims to select the final candidate through fair competition. Concerns have been raised within the party about the need for a cautious approach to avoid discord during the selection process. Excessive competition within a crowded field could weaken party unity and negatively impact competitiveness in the general election. Therefore, the Democratic Party's Ulsan chapter plans to gather opinions from party members and citizens through various methods, including candidate policy debates and opinion polls, and to determine the final candidate through a fair and transparent process. Meanwhile, the upcoming Ulsan mayoral election is expected to involve competition from various political forces. Kim Jong-hoon, head of the Dong-gu district, has confirmed his candidacy as a Progressive Party candidate, seeking to unite progressive forces. Kim is expected to leverage his experience and policy capabilities gained as the Dong-gu district head to garner support from Ulsan citizens. On the People Power Party side, current Ulsan Mayor Kim Doo-gyeom is seeking re-election, and no clear challenger has emerged thus far. Mayor Kim is expected to highlight his achievements during his previous term, emphasize his continued efforts for Ulsan's development, and appeal for support. This competition among diverse political forces is expected to provide Ulsan citizens with a wide range of choices, promote policy competition, and positively impact Ulsan's development. However, concerns have also been raised that excessive competition could deepen political conflicts and lead to divisions in the local community. The upcoming Ulsan mayoral election is more than just a selection of a mayor; it represents a crucial crossroads in determining Ulsan's future. Each candidate is presenting specific policies and visions in various fields, including revitalizing the Ulsan economy, creating jobs, improving the educational environment, and expanding welfare, awaiting the citizens' choice. Citizens must carefully examine the candidates' pledges and make a thoughtful decision about who is best suited to develop Ulsan. Notably, the election faces several variables, including the formation of a multi-candidate race within the Democratic Party, the challenge from the Progressive Party candidate, and the incumbent People Power Party mayor's bid for re-election, raising the possibility of unpredictable developments. Therefore, citizens must actively participate in the election process and engage in discussions about the candidates' policies and pledges to make the best choice for Ulsan's future. All eyes are on whether Ulsan citizens' wise choice can create a bright future for the city.