Park Soo-hyun: "Will Announce His Position Soon"
Calls for "Self-Reflection and Resignation" Grow Within and Outside the Party
Opposition Urges Floor Leader to Step Down
Kim Byung-ki, Floor Leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, who is facing various allegations such as receiving airline ticket favors and hospital protocol, is reportedly considering a public apology. It is known that Floor Leader Kim has been communicating with Democratic Party Chairman Jung Chungrae to seek countermeasures.
Park Soo-hyun, Chief Spokesperson of the Democratic Party, said in an MBC radio interview on the 26th, "Yesterday was Christmas, and Chairman Jung and Floor Leader Kim communicated a lot," adding, "Floor Leader Kim will soon personally clarify his various positions."
It remains uncertain whether his statement will lead to his resignation as floor leader or any other decision regarding his position. Chief Spokesperson Park, based on expectations, said, "Wouldn't he sincerely apologize to the public?" and added, "I don't know if it will lead to a statement about his position. Depending on what happens soon and how public sentiment develops, the timing and level of his statement will be determined."
Park Sang-hyuk, Senior Deputy Floor Leader for Communication, said in an SBS radio interview, "We deeply regret having caused the controversy itself," and added, "If necessary, Floor Leader Kim himself will speak further on the matter."
Recently, media reports have raised allegations against Floor Leader Kim regarding receiving hotel accommodation vouchers from Korean Air, being provided with airport conveniences, and making requests for preferential treatment related to hospital reservations. In response, he pointed to former aides as the source of these reports through social media the previous day, stating, "Words, requests, and help exchanged in trust have now been distorted and branded as abuse of power," and "They secretly recorded conversations with me and are now indiscriminately releasing them, mixing facts, distortions, and falsehoods."
Kim Byung-ki, Floor Leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is speaking about the 'Family Airline Protocol Suspicion' at the National Assembly on the 24th. 2025.12.24 Photo by Kim Hyun-min
Despite his explanations, the atmosphere within the party remains cold. Park Ji-won, a Democratic Party lawmaker, said in a BBS radio interview the previous day, "He has already apologized for his inappropriate actions, but I believe he needs to show more self-restraint," adding, "Before blaming conflicts with his aides, I hope this becomes an opportunity for all lawmakers to reflect on their own behavior."
Opposition parties have also raised issues regarding Floor Leader Kim's conduct. Chun Haram, Floor Leader of the Reform Party, said in a BBS radio interview, "Seeing him attack his aides by disclosing their group chat messages, I think he has crossed the line," and pointed out, "Regarding the alleged preferential treatment for Floor Leader Kim's family's trip to Vietnam, why did his aides have tickets for the lawmaker's family?" Kim Yongtae, a lawmaker from the People Power Party, said in an SBS radio interview, "Many lawmakers believe Floor Leader Kim will resign from his position," and added, "I think it is time for him to also consider resigning from his seat in the National Assembly."
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