Democratic Party Finalizes Expulsion of Kim Hong-gul at Party Meeting

Kim Hong-gul, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, is attending and speaking at the Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee plenary meeting held at the National Assembly on the 16th. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Nahum] The Democratic Party of Korea held a party meeting on the 24th and resolved to expel Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Hong-gul, who has been accused of omitting property declarations and real estate speculation.

Hong Jung-min, the Democratic Party floor spokesperson, stated in a notice that "in accordance with Article 33 of the Political Parties Act, the matter of expelling lawmaker Kim was resolved at the party meeting."

During the last general election's property declaration, Kim was found to own four houses but was suspected of omission for not including pre-sale rights. Additionally, controversy arose after it was revealed that he had gifted an apartment in Gangnam, Seoul, to his second son after claiming to have disposed of it.

Subsequently, the Democratic Party's Ethics Inspection Team conducted an investigation into Kim and requested his expulsion from the Supreme Council. On the 18th, Representative Lee Nak-yeon convened the Supreme Council and resolved to expel lawmaker Kim.