Kim Yong’s Book Launch and Political Fallout in South Korea
The recent publication of “The Usefulness of the President” by Kim Yong, a former vice president of the Korea Institute for Democracy, has ignited a political firestorm in South Korea. The book launch events, resembling a presidential campaign tour, have drawn significant attention and sparked debate within the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), as well as scrutiny from the ruling party.
Background on Kim Yong and the Charges
Kim Yong was convicted on appeal and sentenced to five years in prison for violating the Political Fund Act. The charges stem from allegations that he received 600 million won in illegal political funds from a developer in Daejang-dong in 2021, and approximately 70 million won from Yoo Dong-gyu, former head of the Seongnam Urban Development Corporation. Despite being detained during both trials, Kim Yong has been released on bail.
Close Ties to Lee Jae-myung
Kim Yong has a long-standing relationship with President Lee Jae-myung, who has described him as an “alter ego.” He supported Lee Jae-myung during his time as mayor of Seongnam, and later served as Gyeonggi Province spokesperson and vice president of the Democratic Research Institute when Lee Jae-myung was party leader.
Political Support at Book Launch Events
The book launch events have been well-attended by prominent figures from the DPK. The event at the National Assembly in Yeouido on February 12th included approximately 50 active members of the National Assembly, including National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-sik, Democratic Party Representative Chung Cheong-rae, and Floor Leader Han Byeong-do. A subsequent event in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province on February 20th, saw attendance from Gyeonggi Governor Kim Dong-yeon and Democratic Party of Korea lawmakers Choo Mi-ae and Han Jun-ho.
Controversial Statements and Party Divisions
During the book launch events, several DPK members made statements that fueled controversy. Representative Chung Cheong-rae suggested the judiciary might find in Kim Yong’s favor, while Representative Choo Mi-ae warned against the potential emergence of another prosecutor like Yoon Seok-yeol. These comments, along with the book tour itself, have caused internal divisions within the DPK.
Potential Political Future and the ‘Gongchwimo’ Movement
Rumors are circulating that Kim Yong may run for office in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province, following a by-election triggered by the invalidation of a previous election result. This possibility is complicated by the emergence of the ‘Meeting of Representatives for the Cancellation of President Lee Jae-myung’s Indictment and Promotion of State Investigation’ (Gongchwimo), a group of 104 DPK members. Some believe Kim Yong’s fate is tied to a potential cancellation of the indictment against Lee Jae-myung.
Reactions from the Ruling Party and the Presidential Office
The ruling party has remained largely silent on the matter, with a Blue House official stating they have “nothing special to say.” Some interpret this silence as indicative of complex feelings within the presidential office. Supporters of Kim Yong claim he is a victim of a politically motivated investigation aimed at harassing President Lee Jae-myung.
Internal Concerns within the DPK
Despite the public displays of support, some DPK members express concern about the timing and nature of Kim Yong’s actions. Some believe that holding a book concert before a final verdict is not desirable, and that it could remind voters of the ongoing judicial risks associated with Lee Jae-myung and his associates. There are also concerns that Kim Yong’s potential candidacy in Pyeongtaek could be a distraction and a liability for the party.