Why Did Kim Dong-yeon and Kim Kyung-soo Have a 'Top-Secret Meeting' in Germany Earlier This Month?

Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim Dong-yeon was confirmed to have met former Gyeongnam Province Governor Kim Kyung-soo in Germany during his business trip on the 2nd (Korean time), drawing attention to the background of their meeting. Both are classified as non-mainstream (非明) figures within the opposition and, along with former Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum, are referred to as the "3 Kims" (3김, Sam-Kim).

Governor Kim Dong-yeon had previously visited Austria, the Netherlands, and Germany from the 27th of last month for a 5-night, 7-day trip. The trip was related to strengthening global cooperation in the semiconductor industry and attracting investment in advanced industries. After visiting the Friedrich Ebert Foundation in Germany, Governor Kim reportedly met with former Governor Kim Kyung-soo.

Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim Dong-yeon is seen talking with former Gyeongnam Province Governor Kim Kyung-soo at the 15th anniversary memorial service for the late former President Roh Moo-hyun held on May 23 in Bongha Village, Gimhae, Gyeongnam. Photo by Gyeonggi Provincial Government

Regarding this, Gyeonggi Province stated, "After the meeting with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation concluded, Governor Kim Dong-yeon had an unplanned, natural meeting with former Governor Kim Kyung-soo, who was staying locally in Germany." Earlier, the two had a conversation while attending the 15th anniversary memorial service for former President Roh Moo-hyun held on May 23rd in Bongha Village, Gimhae, Gyeongnam.

The political circle is focusing on the background of their meeting ahead of the sentencing of Lee Jae-myung, the party leader. The first trial sentencing for Lee Jae-myung's election law case (on the 15th) and perjury coaching case (on the 25th) are both scheduled for this month.

Meanwhile, the non-mainstream outside-the-parliament group "Choilhoe" plans to invite either Governor Kim or former Governor Kim as a speaker next month.

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