Choo Kyung-ho wins Daegu mayoral race, pledges 'politics of unity'

People Power Party candidate Choo Kyung-ho won the Daegu mayoral race Thursday, defeating Democratic Party of Korea candidate Kim Boo-kyum in one of the most closely watched contests of the June 3 local elections.

Speaking at his campaign office around 3 a.m., Choo expressed gratitude to voters. "I am deeply thankful for the choice made by the citizens of Daegu," he said. "I will take their expectations and their words of caution to heart."

He also extended an olive branch to his rival. "I want to convey my consolation and gratitude to Kim Boo-kyum," Choo said, adding that he would draw on his experience as deputy prime minister for economic affairs and his networks in the central government and the National Assembly to drive Daegu's development.

"I will reflect in my administration every word of encouragement and every criticism I received during the campaign," he said. "The result of this election is the citizens' mandate to revive Daegu's collapsed economy and restore the city's vitality." He pledged to respect the wishes of those who did not support him and to pursue "politics of unity."

Choo said he would work to make Daegu a future-industry hub that attracts businesses, draws young people back and is a good place to raise children. He added that he would immediately establish an emergency economic operations center upon taking office, focusing on restoring livelihoods, attracting investment and creating jobs.