Kim Doo-kwan: "Proven Presidential Competitiveness in Conservative Regions... Primary Postponement Needed"

"National Basic Asset System:
30 Million Won in Trust for Newborns
Grows to 50?60 Million Won by Age 20"

[Asia Economy, Reporter Park Chuleung] Kim Doo-kwan, a lawmaker from the Democratic Party of Korea, emphasized his candidacy for the presidential election by stating that he is "a candidate with proven competitiveness in conservative regions." Regarding his campaign slogan, the "National Basic Asset System," he explained that the plan involves granting newborns 30 million won in a state trust, and providing them with seed money of 50 to 60 million won when they turn 20. He also raised the need to postpone the party's primary.

On May 12, appearing on YTN Radio's "Hwang Bosun's Morning Start," Kim said, "I am already a candidate with proven competitiveness in conservative regions," adding, "I have served as governor in key regions that determine the outcome of the presidential election, and I am currently a two-term lawmaker representing Yangsan."

He continued, "Gyeongnam is a region where conservatism is strong, but I have considerable appeal among moderates as well. That is why I was elected governor of Gyeongnam 11 years ago, and although many people were concerned during last year's 21st general election, I moved my constituency from Gimpo to Yangsan and was elected."

He argued that the Democratic Party's clear identity puts him in a favorable position in terms of regional dynamics. Kim stated, "I dare say that I am a legitimate successor to the party's identity, which has been passed down through Kim Dae-jung, Roh Moo-hyun, and Moon Jae-in. I have also contributed to breaking down regionalism and making the Democratic Party a truly national party. That is why I am more competitive than anyone else."

Regarding the National Basic Asset System, he said, "The idea is for the state to provide about 30 million won in trust to newborns, and for that trust to be managed by the National Pension Service or asset management firms. When they turn 20, they would receive a basic asset, giving them opportunities to enter society, go to school, or start a business with friends." He added, "It could easily amount to 50 to 60 million won."

Kim also addressed the postponement of the party primary, saying, "In the United States, both the Democratic and Republican parties hold their primaries around the same time. From the perspective of our party's presidential election strategy, I proposed that it would be better to postpone the primary." He continued, "Originally, the primary is to be held at least 180 days in advance, but if there are significant reasons, the party constitution and regulations allow the party executive committee to decide otherwise. Therefore, Song Young-gil, the party leader, and the top leadership can coordinate with the presidential candidates and make a decision."

Regarding the appointment of ministerial nominees, he said, "The party held a general meeting, and while I am not sure of the exact details, there are rumors that the party conveyed concerns about the burden of appointing all three nominees as a way to manage the situation. Since I am not part of the leadership, I do not know for sure," adding, "However, regardless, the Office of Personnel Affairs and the Office of Civil Affairs should conduct even more thorough vetting to meet public expectations."

He went on to say, "I think it would be better if the ruling and opposition parties could have in-depth discussions and, for personal matters, hold closed-door sessions to exclude inappropriate candidates. Then, during the main confirmation hearing, they could focus on verifying qualifications, such as whether the nominee is fit to serve as Minister of Science and ICT, for example. I hope the confirmation hearing process could be changed in this way."

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