When Asked About "Kim Byungki's Voluntary Departure," Han Byungdo, Jin Sungjun, and Baek Hyeryun Say "Yes"

Among the four candidates (Han Byungdo, Jin Sungjun, Park Jung, and Baek Hyeryun, listed in order of ballot number) running in the Democratic Party of Korea floor leader by-election, three insisted that former floor leader Kim Byungki should voluntarily leave the party. This by-election is being held following Kim's voluntary resignation amid allegations of personal misconduct and suspicions of nomination bribery.

Han Byungdo (left to right), Jin Sungjun, Baek Hyeryun, and Park Jung, candidates running for the Democratic Party of Korea floor leader by-election, are taking a commemorative photo before the floor leader candidates debate held on the 8th at JTBC in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul. Photo by the National Assembly Press Photographers Group, Yonhap News Agency

During a live joint debate held at the JTBC studio in Mapo-gu, Seoul, on the afternoon of January 8, when the moderator asked, "Do you think former floor leader Kim should voluntarily leave the party?" three of the candidates, excluding Park Jung, answered that Kim should step down on his own.

Jin Sungjun stated, "Former floor leader Kim said, 'Even if I am expelled, I will not leave the party.' While this may be an expression of his frustration and assertion of innocence, I also believe it reflects his affection for the party. Since he began his political career in the party and even served in the leadership, I hope he will make a decision for the greater good of the party."

Baek Hyeryun commented, "Although former floor leader Kim may have reasons to feel wronged, the suspicions are growing by the day and the party is now facing a crisis. In times like this, the spirit of putting the party before oneself is needed."

Han Byungdo also remarked, "Many citizens and party members are concerned about the recent issues. As a former floor leader, I believe he should take responsibility for these concerns and step down from the party, and then work to uncover the truth."

On the other hand, Park Jung said, "What matters is the democratic process. We should listen to all of former floor leader Kim's explanations and then make a decision about his future through the party's official body, the Ethics Tribunal."

The candidates also showed differing views on the possibility of extending or renewing the floor leader's term. Both Jin Sungjun and Park Jung rejected the idea of extending or renewing the four-month term, while Baek Hyeryun and Han Byungdo left the possibility open.

The term of the new floor leader to be elected this time will last until May, which is just over four months. Since there are no rules regarding consecutive terms for floor leaders in the party's constitution and regulations, there is a possibility that the new floor leader could be reappointed after a party leadership decision, especially in consideration of the June 3 local elections.