Race to local elections

Ahead of the June local elections, the Democratic Party is capitalizing on President Lee Jae Myung’s strong approval ratings, with candidates highlighting their alignment with the administration. In contrast, the People Power Party remains divided, with candidates struggling to present a unified message. Some are seen distancing themselves from party leader Jang Dong-hyeok, whose low popularity has become a political liability. Analysts say this contrast — cohesion versus fragmentation — is widening the competitiveness gap between the two parties.[PARK YONG-SEOK]