6/4 Talk about the local elections.

Today is the local elections day in Korea. Heads of local governments, such as mayors and provincial governors, are elected today.

* head of local government: 지방 자치 단체장

ex> Most heads of local governments are from the districts they govern.

City councilors and superintendents are also elected at the same time. Officials who are elected today have a four-year term.

* city councilor: 시의원

* superintendent: 교육감

The ruling and opposition parties have nominated their candidates for each electoral district.

* nominate candidates: 후보자를 공천하다

ex> Both parties nominated candidates for the general election.

People who are 19 years of age can vote. You have to be at least 25 to run for office.

* run for office: (공직에) 출마하다

ex> She’s not interested in running for office.

Election day is designated as a public holiday. Polling stations are open from 6 am to 6 pm.

* polling station: 투표소

ex> There are many polling stations in every electoral district.

Voters bring their pictured IDs and cast their votes at their local polling stations. TV stations announce exit polls as soon as voting ends.

* exit poll: 출구조사

ex> Exit poll results are not always correct.

@ It’s too close to call.  박빙의 승부야 / 초접전 중이야.

<HOMEWORK>

1. Local elections are held to elect new heads of local governments.

2. He decided to run for office this year.

3. There were not many people at that polling station.

4. I was watching the exit poll results on TV.

@ Related Topics>> Street Election campaign (2011.5.5), Presidential Election (2012.12.19)