National Assembly by-elections carry weighty implications for conservative, progressive blocs

The political fates of potential heavyweights hung in the balance in Wednesday's National Assembly by-elections, with their victories or defeats carrying implications for the conservative and progressive blocs alike.

Of the 14 by-elections, Busan's Buk-A district and Pyeongtaek-B drew the most attention.

Busan pits a former aide of President Lee Jae Myung against a former leader of the conservatives; Pyeongtaek brings a minor liberal opposition leader against established parties.

The exit poll w