Oh Se-hoon: The Five-Term Mayor of Seoul
Oh Se-hoon is a prominent South Korean politician and lawyer who has shaped the landscape of Seoul through multiple terms as its mayor. A member of the People Power Party, Oh has navigated a complex political career spanning over two decades, transitioning from a young legislator to one of the most enduring figures in the administration of South Korea's capital city.
Key Facts
- Current Role: 33rd and 35th Mayor of Seoul (Incumbent).
- Political Party: People Power Party.
- Education: LLB from Korea University.
- Notable Achievement: Secured a historic fifth mayoral term in 2026.
- Professional Background: Lawyer and former member of the National Assembly.
- Military Service: Served as a First Lieutenant (Jungwi) in the Republic of Korea Army Security Command.
Early Life, Education, and Legal Career
Born on January 4, 1961, in the Seongdong District of Seoul, Oh Se-hoon's academic journey began at Daeil High School and continued at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies before he transferred to Korea University's School of Law. After earning his LLB and passing the bar exam, he entered the legal profession.
Before entering politics, Oh gained public recognition in 1994 through his appearances on the MBC program Lawyer Oh and Lawyer Bae. A devout Roman Catholic with the baptismal name Stephen, his early professional success provided a springboard for his entry into public service.
Rise in National Politics
Oh's political career began in 2000 when he was elected to the 16th National Assembly representing the Gangnam B constituency. During this period, he emerged as a leader for younger lawmakers, heading the "Future Alliance" within the Grand National Party. He also played a pivotal role as the secretary of the Special Committee on Political Reform, where he spearheaded the revision of election-related statutes known as the "Oh Se-hoon Election Laws."
The First Mayoral Tenure (2006–2011)
Oh first assumed the office of Mayor of Seoul on July 1, 2006. His first tenure was marked by significant urban development and a focus on the city's environmental identity. He oversaw the construction of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a landmark architectural project that remains a centerpiece of Seoul's modern identity.
A defining characteristic of this era was the Seoul City Water Project. Oh championed the cleanliness of city tap water, encouraging residents to reduce their reliance on bottled water. He also launched the Han River Renaissance project, which introduced riverside bike paths and the Sebitseom floating islands near Banpo Bridge. However, these water-centric initiatives later led to the satirical nickname "Oseidon" (a blend of his name and Poseidon) following severe floods in 2011, 2022, and 2023.
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Despite his re-election in 2010, Oh resigned in August 2011 following the rejection of his proposal regarding the Seoul free lunch referendum.
Political Transition and Return to Power
Following his resignation, Oh spent time in the United Kingdom as a fellow at King's College London, studying global urban growth and job creation. He faced several electoral setbacks between 2016 and 2020, losing bids for the National Assembly in the Jongno and Gwangjin districts.
During this hiatus, Oh remained influential by proposing a "real estate trifecta" to address housing crises, which included price caps on new apartments, disclosure of construction costs, and a post-construction sales system, alongside the promotion of "half-price apartments."
The Second and Subsequent Mayoralties (2021–Present)
Oh returned to the mayoralty on April 8, 2021, after winning a by-election with 57.5% of the vote. He subsequently secured a fourth term in 2022 and a historic fifth term in 2026. His most recent campaign focused on maintaining political balance in Seoul, positioning the city as a "last bastion" against the ruling Democratic Party.
In 2026, Oh narrowly defeated challenger Chong Won-o in a highly competitive race, overcoming early exit poll trends to secure his victory.
Political Positions and Controversies
LGBTQ Rights and Public Space
Oh has expressed personal disagreement with homosexuality while stating that the rights of minorities must be protected from discrimination. However, his administration has faced criticism for restricting the Seoul Queer Culture Festival. In 2024, permission for the parade to gather at Seoul Plaza was denied, with municipal authorities citing a book-related festival as the reason.
National Security and Governance
On the issue of national security, Oh has advocated for South Korea to acquire nuclear weapons to effectively counter threats from North Korea, arguing that the logic of pure denuclearization is no longer sufficient.
Notably, despite his party affiliation, Oh publicly opposed President Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, demanding that the People Power Party sever ties with the President following the failed declaration.
Summary of Electoral History
The following table outlines Oh Se-hoon's electoral trajectory from his first National Assembly win to his fifth mayoral term.
| Year | Office | Party | Result | Vote % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | National Assembly (Gangnam B) | Grand National Party | Won | 59.39% |
| 2006 | Mayor of Seoul | Grand National Party | Won | 61.05% |
| 2010 | Mayor of Seoul | Grand National Party | Won | 47.43% |
| 2016 | National Assembly (Jongno) | Saenuri Party | Lost | 39.72% |
| 2020 | National Assembly (Gwangjin B) | United Future Party | Lost | 47.82% |
| 2021 | Mayor of Seoul (By-election) | People Power Party | Won | 57.50% |
| 2022 | Mayor of Seoul | People Power Party | Won | 59.05% |
| 2026 | Mayor of Seoul | People Power Party | Won | 49.22% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Oh Se-hoon nicknamed "Oseidon"?
The nickname is a combination of his name and Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. It was coined by critics following severe floods in Seoul (specifically in 2011, 2022, and 2023) as a play on his extensive "city of water" initiatives and the Han River Renaissance project.
What was the "real estate trifecta" proposed by Oh Se-hoon?
The real estate trifecta consists of three policy proposals: implementing a price cap on new apartments, requiring the disclosure of construction costs, and establishing a post-construction sales system to stabilize housing prices.
What is Oh Se-hoon's stance on nuclear weapons?
Oh Se-hoon supports the acquisition of nuclear weapons by South Korea, stating that it is necessary to counter the threats posed by North Korea.
How did Oh Se-hoon react to the 2024 martial law declaration?
Despite being a member of the same party, Oh Se-hoon opposed President Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, and called for the People Power Party to distance itself from the President.
What major architectural project is associated with his first term?
The Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) was constructed during Oh Se-hoon's first tenure as mayor, becoming one of the city's most recognizable modern landmarks.