Kim Kyung-soo, Freed from Political Shackles by Lottery, Says "I Will Consider Roles That Benefit Our Society"

Lee Jae-myung "I Expect You to Play a Bigger Role"

Former Gyeongnam Governor Kim Kyung-soo said on the 13th, ahead of the August 15 Liberation Day, regarding his restoration of rights and the removal of restrictions on running for office, "I will carefully consider what role I can play to contribute to our society."

On the same day, Kim posted on social media (SNS), "I will look back on the path I have walked and spend more time in self-reflection," adding, "I will also carefully understand the meaning behind the criticisms from those who opposed my restoration of rights." Earlier, President Yoon Suk-yeol approved a special pardon, commutation, and restoration of rights for 1,219 people, including former Governor Kim, in celebration of the August 15 Liberation Day.

Former Gyeongnam Governor Kim Kyung-soo [Image source=Yonhap News]

Former Governor Kim was acquitted of charges of violating the Public Official Election Act related to the comment manipulation case involving 'Druking' Kim Dong-won and his associates, but he was sentenced to two years in prison for obstructing business using computers and lost his governorship. Although he received a special pardon five months before the end of his sentence, his rights were not restored, resulting in the loss of his eligibility to run for office in general elections and other elections.

As Kim was known as a key figure among the pro-Roh and pro-Moon factions, this restoration of rights has established the minimum conditions for him to resume political activities.

Kim, who is currently staying in Germany for studies, is expected to return to Korea by the end of this year.

Regarding Kim Kyung-soo’s restoration of rights, Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party’s candidate for party leader, expressed a welcoming stance. Lee said, "I sincerely welcome the restoration of rights for former Governor Kim Kyung-soo together with party members," and added, "I hope he will play an even greater role for the people and the Democratic Party in the future."

Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim Dong-yeon also expressed a welcoming position. Governor Kim said, "This restoration of rights should have been done earlier, but I appreciate that the president made the decision despite internal and external opposition within the party," and added, "The political calculations in Yeouido surrounding former Governor Kim’s restoration of rights should now stop." He continued, "I look forward to and support the role of former Governor Kim Kyung-soo, who has become stronger and deeper."