Kim Byungki Appears Before Ethics Tribunal Over Nomination Fund Allegations: "I Will Prove My Innocence"

Refuses to Leave the Party, Seeks to Clear Allegations
Party Says "All Options Remain Open"

Kim Byungki, former floor leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, appeared before the party's Ethics Tribunal on January 12. Kim stated, "I will respond diligently so that my innocence regarding the allegations can be proven."

On this day, Kim arrived at the party headquarters by car. He has been embroiled in various allegations, including receiving hotel vouchers, mistreatment of aides, and accepting illegal nomination funds.

Yonhap News Agency

Previously, Democratic Party leader Jung Chungrae ordered an investigation by the party's Ethics Inspection Team into Kim on December 25. Kim stepped down as floor leader on December 30. Subsequently, at an emergency Supreme Council meeting on January 1, after receiving the results of the Ethics Inspection Team's investigation, the council passed an agenda item requesting "an expedited disciplinary decision by the Central Party Ethics Tribunal regarding Assemblyman Kim Byungki."

Kim had previously requested a postponement of the Ethics Tribunal meeting, citing insufficient time to prepare his explanation, but this request was not accepted. While there have been growing calls both inside and outside the party for Kim to voluntarily leave the party, he has refused to do so, insisting on clearing up the allegations first.

Kim Hyunjung, floor spokesperson for the Democratic Party, said in a YTN radio interview that day, regarding the issue with Kim Byungki, "The party will consider all possibilities in making its decision," adding, "If, after explanations and proceedings with the Ethics Tribunal, it is determined that the allegations have not been properly clarified, the Supreme Council is leaving open the possibility of any decision at its level."