Six-Term Lawmaker Choo Mi-ae Secures DPK Nomination for Gyeonggi Province Gubernatorial Race

Veteran lawmaker Choo Mi-ae secures the DPK nomination for Gyeonggi governor, aiming to become South Korea's first female provincial head this June.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 8, 2026, 10:40 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Korea Times

Primary Victory Sets Stage for High-Stakes Gubernatorial Contest

The ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) solidified its electoral strategy for the upcoming June 3 local elections by nominating Representative Choo Mi-ae as its flagship candidate for the Gyeonggi Province governor’s seat. The party's nomination committee confirmed the results on Tuesday following a three-day primary voting period that began on Sunday. Choo managed to secure a decisive majority of the votes, positioning her as the primary contender to lead a province that serves as the economic and residential heart of the nation.

Navigating a Competitive Field in Korea’s Largest Province

The primary was a significant test of political influence, as Choo faced off against formidable opponents within her own party. She successfully fended off challenges from the incumbent Gyeonggi Governor Kim Dong-yeon and fellow lawmaker Han Joon-ho. Winning the nomination in Gyeonggi is considered a major political feat, given that the province is home to approximately 14 million residents, making it the most populous and strategically vital region in South Korean local politics.

A Legal and Political Career Defined by Judicial Reform

Choo enters the race with a robust political resume, having served six terms in the National Assembly. Her career began in the judiciary as a judge before she transitioned into the legislative branch, where she eventually rose to prominence as a key figure in the liberal Moon Jae-in administration. During her tenure as Justice Minister from 2020 to 2021, she became synonymous with the party’s push for comprehensive judicial reform, a mission she continued while chairing the National Assembly’s Legislation and Judiciary Committee.