`Ambitious 18-year-old` Candidate for State Representative in November

Han, Youngsun (18), 2nd generation Korean in Washington, is going to run for a state representative in November election on behalf of Green Party.

A voting right and eligibility for election is given to those 18-year-old or older.

Mr. Han, who graduated from high school last year and is scheduled to go to Whittier College in Los Angeles this fall, will compete for a seat of state representative against Joe Marine, incumbent representative (Republican), and others in the 21st Legislative District of Snohomish County.

His candidacy has been widespread due to an unexpected accident by various presses, including the local presses and New York Times via AP.

Mr. and Mrs. Stan Shore, Republican Election Consultants, who wanted Green Party to split the votes for Democrats, donated 250 dollars to Mr. Han`s bank account secretly, which was revealed later.

Mr. Han said, ``I am young and idealistic and I hate such a dirty trick.`` and returned the problematic 250 dollars to them. Nevertheless, the accident has become a hot issue among political parties. Since the House is tied by 49 Republicans and 49 Democrats, the election is so hot in that once a Republican loses a seat, the Democratic Party will be the ruling party.

Last year Mr. Han volunteered to support Ralph Nader, former president candidate of Green Party and consumer protection advocate, and he is interested in rifle possession regulations and minority protection policy. Han Myung-Duk (51), his father, is an official.

Hong Kwon-Heui konihong@donga.com