Exit-poll results from three major broadcast networks show Democratic Party candidate Jeong Won-oh leading Oh Se-hoon of the People Power Party [1].

The results are critical because the Seoul mayoral race is considered the primary battleground of the local elections. A victory in the capital often signals broader political momentum for the winning party.

At the campaign headquarters of Jeong Won-oh in Seoul, the atmosphere shifted to relief and celebration on Wednesday [1]. Supporters were seen hugging, applauding, and cheering as the initial data became available. Despite the visible excitement, the campaign staff maintained a level of restraint regarding the final outcome [1].

A field reporter for YTN described the mood at the headquarters as one of relief. The reporter said the camp was feeling an initial sense of ease, but noted that the lead was not yet definitive [1].

Campaign officials expressed cautious optimism because the margin between the two candidates was not considered huge [1]. This narrow gap suggests that the final tally could still shift, keeping the campaign team on edge despite the early lead [1].

The three networks provided the data immediately following the close of the local elections [1]. While the exit polls provide an early indication of the winner, official results are pending as ballots are counted across the city [1].

“The exit-poll indicated Jeong Won-oh was leading, prompting relief among his supporters.”

The Seoul mayoral election serves as a bellwether for South Korean political sentiment. While the exit polls favor the Democratic candidate, the lack of a decisive margin indicates a polarized electorate in the capital, suggesting that the final result will depend on the precise counting of late-arriving or absentee ballots.