Democratic Party's Kim Jong-min: "Only 7 Proportional Seats... Coalition Nomination Possible"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Cheol-eung] Kim Jong-min, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, said regarding the proportional alliance party, "The alliance nomination can play the role of ensuring that the Democratic Party secures about 7 seats and prevents the rest from being stolen by the 'Proportional Korea Party'."

On the 5th, Kim appeared on MBC Radio's 'Kim Jong-bae's Focus' and said, "Some people suggest giving up on nominating proportional candidates, but according to the election law, the maximum number of seats the Democratic Party can obtain through proportional voting is about 7."

This indicates that the Democratic Party can participate in the political reform alliance party being promoted by civic society figures under these conditions. Kim said, "Since confrontational politics between major parties are repeated, let's reflect minority voices as much as possible. Even if the major party suffers losses, let's open the way for minority parties to enter the National Assembly. This is the core of the current election law," adding, "The Proportional Korea Party fundamentally overturns the purpose of the election law. Because the major party regrets losing 10 to 15 seats, they create a disguised party to take them back."

However, an agreement with the Justice Party and the Minsheng Party is necessary. Kim said, "If it's about that number (7 seats), I don't think it's a disguised party for the Democratic Party's interests or against principles, but in any case, agreement with the Justice Party, Minsheng Party, and others is important," adding, "In my view, if the Justice Party does not accept it, it will be difficult to proceed."

Regarding the option of not nominating any proportional candidates at all, he said, "I see it as one of several ways to uphold principles. Voters should be allowed to make clear choices," but also mentioned, "Including that point, sufficient dialogue is possible."

Kim also said, "The Justice Party seems to misunderstand that the Democratic Party is leading this to compensate for its own losses. There seems to be such suspicion. Therefore, on that point, the Democratic Party must consistently uphold the principle of not being greedy."

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