With as many as 17 potential races emerging, the upcoming June 3rd by-elections are gaining significant attention, particularly regarding the potential candidacies of Jo Guk, leader of the Jo Guk Innovation Party, Ha Jung-woo, a presidential aide, and former People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon.
Potential High-Profile Matchups
Currently, by-elections are confirmed for three re-elections – in Ansan Gap, Gyeonggi Province; Pyeongtaek Eul, Gyeonggi Province; and Gunsan, Gimje, and Buan Gap, North Jeolla Province – and seven by-elections – in Hanam Gap, Gyeonggi Province; Gyeongyang Eul, Incheon; Yeonsu Gap, Incheon; Asan, South Chungcheong Province; Gunsan, Gimje, and Buan Eul, North Jeolla Province; Buk Gap, Busan; and Nam Gap, Ulsan. Additional races could arise depending on candidate selections in South Jeolla and Jeju provinces, as well as in Daegu.
The Busan Buk Gap by-election, triggered by the candidacy of Jeon Jae-soo of the Democratic Party for Busan mayor, is shaping up as a potential contest between Ha Jung-woo and Han Dong-hoon. Democratic Party officials, including 사무총장 Jo Seung-rae, stated on April 12th that efforts to recruit Ha Jung-woo as a candidate have “progressed” and that they are “making efforts to nominate him as a candidate.” Lee Yeon-hee, a strategy and planning chairperson, indicated a meeting between 정청래 and Ha Jung-woo is planned this week to request his candidacy, noting Ha Jung-woo had initially been reluctant but is now more open to the possibility.
Han Dong-hoon, previously ousted from the People Power Party, has signaled his likely candidacy in Busan Buk Gap. On April 11th, he stated, “Big politics must be clear, and one must take responsibility for what one says.” He also remarked on KBS radio, “My heart is easy to read, as if from song lyrics. Haven’t you all read my mind?” A source close to Han Dong-hoon confirmed on April 12th that he is “seriously considering” running in Busan.
Jo Guk is prioritizing a run in Pyeongtaek Eul, Gyeonggi Province, where a by-election was necessitated by the conviction of former Democratic Party representative Lee Byeong-jin. The Jo Guk Innovation Party has stated it will not field candidates in elections stemming from the Democratic Party’s own issues. Though, the party is also considering Hanam Gap, Gyeonggi Province, following the confirmation of Choo Mi-ae as the Democratic Party’s candidate for Gyeonggi Province governor. The possibility of Jo Guk running in Busan Buk Gap appears to be diminishing with increasing discussion of Ha Jung-woo’s potential candidacy.
The Democratic Party is reportedly seeking a legal professional to run in Ulsan Nam Gap, where a by-election is being held due to Kim Sang-wook’s candidacy for Ulsan mayor. Jo Seung-rae stated they are “working to recruit talented individuals in the region.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the by-elections?
As of April 12, 2026, by-elections are confirmed for 10 districts, with the possibility of up to 17 total races depending on further candidate selections.
Who are the key figures considering running in Busan Buk Gap?
Ha Jung-woo, a 청와대 AI미래기획수석, and Han Dong-hoon, a former leader of the People Power Party, are both being discussed as potential candidates for the Busan Buk Gap by-election.
Where is Jo Guk currently considering running?
Jo Guk is prioritizing a run in Pyeongtaek Eul, Gyeonggi Province, but is also considering Hanam Gap, Gyeonggi Province.
How will these by-elections potentially impact the political landscape?
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