With South Korea’s 22nd National Assembly elections approaching in just five months, the political landscape is marked by uncertainty. The ruling People Power Party (PPP), along with the opposition Democratic Party (DP), are navigating a critical juncture as they struggle to formulate compelling campaign platforms that resonate with voters.

In a bid to regain its footing after a significant loss in the Gangseo-gu by-election, the PPP has proposed a dramatic expansion of Seoul’s borders. This policy involves incorporating Gimpo, a city to the west, thereby increasing Seoul’s land area by 45%. This is not unprecedented; Seoul has expanded its limits several times, with the last expansion in 1995.