South Korean lawmakers from Daegu and Gyeongbuk (TK) regions, who previously opposed the administrative integration special bill, now plan to support it during the February National Assembly plenary session.
Party Leadership Persuades TK Legislators
People Power Party floor leaders convened a morning meeting on February 26 with Daegu and Gyeongbuk district lawmakers, urging them to endorse the TK administrative integration. Earlier concerns about legal validity had led to divided votes on the cooperation bill.
The floor leadership also reached out individually to 25 TK district members that morning, securing their commitment. All Daegu district lawmakers reaffirmed their support for a favorable vote.
During the session with floor leaders, 12 Daegu lawmakers expressed unified backing for TK integration, opting against a separate ballot.
Daegu Mayor Voices Strong Support
Daegu Mayor Kwon Young-jin, a People Power Party affiliate, stated, “Daegu district lawmakers will follow if they see me committing to integration.” He added, “Certain positions could gain ministerial status upon passage, but we request handling alongside Jeonnam and Gwangju bills, floor leader.”
Gyeongbuk Shows Divided Opinions
In contrast, Gyeongbuk lawmakers held a secret ballot amid some opposition. Of the 13 members, three from the northern district—Park Hyung-soo, Kim Hyung-dong, and Im Jong-deok—openly opposed.
Voting results favored the pro-integration stance. Gyeongbuk Provincial Council Chairman Koo Ja-geun explained, “Our lawmakers worked diligently, but the majority pro-vote determines our path.” He noted, “Opposition ballots were not publicly tallied.”
The party anticipates finalizing its top directive on proposing the TK administrative integration special bill at a caucus later today.
