Choo Mi-ae, the Democratic Party of Korea candidate for Gyeonggi governor, was seen on the 3rd as virtually assured of victory in the June 3 local elections. If Choo wins, she will become the first-ever female head of a metropolitan government. Yang Hyang-ja of the People Power Party said to Choo, "Please work hard for provincial administration."
According to the National Election Commission, as of 11:27 p.m. on the 3rd with 28.79% of ballots counted, Choo had 53.68% of the vote, ahead of Yang at 40.77%. The count stands in the 28% range, but observers say Choo is strongly favored to win.
Around 11 p.m. on the 3rd, Yang said in the People Power Party Gyeonggi campaign committee situation room in Yeonghwa-dong, Suwon, "Public sentiment is always right. I extend my congratulations to candidate Choo Mi-ae," adding, "Please devote yourself to a Gyeonggi provincial administration that looks only to the residents, using the time of intense competition and debate as a stepping stone." Although Choo's victory had not yet been officially confirmed, Yang effectively conceded defeat.
Yang said, "I fell far short," and added, "I bow my head in sincere gratitude to the people of Gyeonggi for your excessive love and guidance." He went on, "Those of you who supported me did your best," and "Responsibility lies solely with me, the candidate."