Democratic Party's Nakdong River Advance Operation... 'Figure' Kim Du-kwan, 'Policy' New Airport

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Cheol-eung] The Democratic Party of Korea has unveiled a special prescription card for the Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam (PK) region. The figure is Representative Kim Du-kwan (Gimpo City Gap, Gyeonggi), and the policy is the construction of a new airport. Although the party swept the metropolitan government heads in this region in the 2018 local elections, public sentiment is believed to have worsened recently due to the aftermath of the prosecution investigation. For the Democratic Party, there seems to be an urgent recognition that a turnaround in mood is needed to regain voter support.

On the 6th, the Democratic Party’s Gyeongnam Provincial Party requested Representative Kim to run in the Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam area, and this opinion was conveyed to him through the Democratic Party’s Supreme Council meeting. Representative Kim is reportedly considering the offer. Hong Ik-pyo, the Democratic Party’s chief spokesperson, explained, "There was an opinion that someone is needed to lead the general election in the PK region overall," adding, "Because it is a strategically important area with high expectations, it means they want more support to be given."

This is a strategic move with the Yangsan area, where President Moon Jae-in’s residence is located, in mind. They want Representative Kim to run in Yangsan-e, the constituency of Democratic Party Representative Seo Hyung-soo, who has expressed his intention not to run. Having served as Minister of the Interior and Safety and Governor of Gyeongnam Province, Representative Kim is one of the most influential ruling party lawmakers in the Yeongnam region.

On the same day, PK region lawmakers also issued an appeal to Prime Minister nominee Chung Sye-kyun urging the prompt promotion of the "Southeast Gateway Airport." They demand the construction of a new airport instead of expanding Gimhae Airport, which is currently under review by a verification committee formed by the Prime Minister’s Office. They emphasized, "Due to population and business outflow causing hollowing and shrinking, there is a risk of local extinction," and added, "The Southeast Gateway Airport is essential not only to overcome the imbalance and disadvantages faced by Yeongnam region companies and residents but also to reduce the overconcentration of the metropolitan area and social costs."

The Democratic Party won the heads of the three local governments?Busan City, Ulsan City, and Gyeongnam Province?in 2018 with support rates exceeding 50%. However, the party’s support rate in this region has recently remained in the mid-30% range.

Hong Hyung-sik, director of Hangil Research, analyzed, "The prosecution investigation is centered on PK figures," and added, "If the investigation turns into a gate scandal depending on future developments, it could become a major variable in this election."

A Democratic Party lawmaker said, "Currently, public sentiment in the PK region is not as strong as during the local elections, but overall it is considered a close contest," and added, "If Representative Kim comes, he can play a centripetal role and help unite forces."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.