Incumbent Jeonbuk Governor Kim Kwan-young declares an independent bid for re-election in the June 3 local election, transforming a predicted ruling party victory into a fierce two-way contest.
Expelled from the Democratic Party over proxy fee payment suspicions and alleged election violations, Kim positions himself against the party’s nominee, Lee Won-taek. This move disrupts People Power Party expectations in the race.
Democratic Party Leader Issues Harsh Condemnation
Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung labels Kim’s independent candidacy a “blatant nomination refusal and grave harm to the party.” He states permanent re-entry into the party remains impossible.
Party chief of staff Jo Su-jeong echoes this at a press briefing, vowing firm action against any members supporting Kim. Jo declares, “No legal grounds exist for his claims, and his actions show utter shamelessness.”
Election Violation Probe Fuels Tensions
Following Kim’s expulsion, the Democratic Party files an election violation report with the National Election Commission targeting him. Officials nominate Lee Won-taek as their candidate amid the probe.
Kim counters that the discipline stemmed from a “targeted operation to eliminate Kim Kwan-young” led by a pro-Jeong Cheong-rae faction. His camp retorts, “Even if offered, we reject rejoining under leadership blinded by self-interest.”
Insiders Warn of Broader Fallout
Party affiliates note nationwide public sentiment sours against them. One source warns, “Kim’s incumbency makes victory elusive; defeat here burdens leader Lee’s re-election bid with heavy consequences.”
On May 7, Kim appears at the Saenuri New Life Education Conference chairman’s office in Namanwon, signaling grassroots mobilization post-candidacy declaration.
