'An's Close Aide' Kim Cheol-geun Joins United Future Party... "Tactical Strength Lacking Ahead of Election"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyemin] Kim Cheol-geun, former spokesperson of the Bareunmirae Party and a close aide to former lawmaker Ahn Cheol-soo, has joined the United Future Party.

On the afternoon of the 27th, Kim held a press conference at the National Assembly Press Hall to announce this. He also had a private interview with the United Future Party's nomination committee earlier that morning.

He explained his reason for joining the party, saying, "It has been eight years since I started my political career with Representative Ahn, but I judged that remaining tied to this position any longer would be a great mistake in history."

Afterwards, Kim told reporters, "I fully agree with Representative Ahn's intention to overcome factional politics, but power is needed to resolve this. Since the election is approaching, tactical considerations are also necessary." He added, "I met Representative Ahn yesterday, and he said he would respect my decision as we are each in different positions and situations."

Kim had been preparing to run for the Guro Gap district, but he said that during the interview, the party's nomination committee recommended he run in the Gangseo-gu district of Seoul. The United Future Party has already confirmed lawyer Kim Jae-sik as its candidate for Guro Gap. Kim said, "There were many questions, especially about Representative Ahn. They asked if I would return to Representative Ahn if I were elected." He explained, "I told them that once I choose a party, I am loyal to it, and I cannot change positions based on personal relationships. Having been in Yeouido for a long time, I know the basic principles."