Democratic Party Proposes Current Single-Member District System and Proportional Representation by Three Regions

One-Day Closed Party Meeting
"Operate Mixed-Member Proportional Representation Together but Establish Satellite Party Prevention Measures"

The Democratic Party of Korea has decided to pursue a proportional representation system divided into three regions while maintaining the current single-member district system as the electoral reform plan to be applied in next year's general election.

On the 1st, the Democratic Party announced that it discussed this electoral reform plan at a closed-door party members' meeting held at the National Assembly. Floor spokesperson Kim Han-gyu explained, "The majority of members agreed on maintaining the current single-member district system for constituencies and adopting a regional proportional representation system for proportional seats," adding, "The regions are divided into three areas: the Seoul metropolitan area, the central region, and the southern region (Yeongnam and Honam)."

He stated, "However, the single-member district system and the regional proportional representation system should operate together like a semi-linked system, and there was a strong opinion that the number of proportional seats should increase compared to the current number," and added, "We will continue to consult with the ruling party under this broad direction."

Regarding claims from some quarters that "if proportional representation is increased, a reduction in constituencies is necessary," he said, "If the 253 constituencies are not reduced even partially, the party's goals of proportionality and diversity cannot be achieved, so a certain degree of sacrifice from constituency members is necessary," and added, "There was consensus that the leadership should make a decision on this and seek understanding from the related members." He further explained that the direction will be determined through negotiations between the ruling and opposition parties.

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