District Party Offices Revived in South Korea After 22 Years, Igniting Political Debate

The recent passage of the Political Reform Special Committee's bill, allowing regional party committees to set up offices, marks a significant, albeit controversial, return of the 'jigudang' system after a 22-year absence. The Hankyoreh notes the deep divisions this decision has exposed. On one hand, critics decry it as a 'backroom deal' by the two major parties, the Democratic Party and the People Power Party, to resurrect a system historically associated with 'money politics' and illegal campaign funding, citing the 'truckload' scandal of 2002 that led to the original abolition.

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The revival of 'jigudang' by the two major parties is a 'backroom deal'.

Concerns are particularly acute among smaller parties, like the four-party progressive bloc, who label this a revival of 'money politics' and worry that it will further entrench the dominance of the two major parties. Professor Lee Jun-han of Incheon National University echoes this sentiment, warning of a potential regression to 'money-based politics' and 'local strongman politics.' The argument is that the ability to establish physical offices, even if fundraising remains restricted, provides a significant organizational advantage that larger parties with greater financial resources can exploit more effectively.

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There is a possibility of returning to money-based politics and 'local strongman politics'.

However, the reform is also framed as a necessary step to level the playing field for politicians, particularly those without a current parliamentary seat. Seo Bok-kyung, head of the More Possible Institute, argues that formalizing these informal party organizations will allow for better management and support, especially for minority parties struggling to establish a local foothold. The ability to conduct face-to-face activities, train members, and hold discussions is seen as crucial for grassroots political engagement. This perspective suggests that the move, while carrying risks, could democratize party structures and empower local political activity, which was stifled by the previous ban on offices.

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It is an essential system in that it allows for the formalization and systematic management of informal party organizations. The reason minority parties have failed to establish roots in local areas is also because local grassroots activities were closed off.

From a Korean perspective, the debate over the 'jigudang' touches upon fundamental questions about the nature of political power, campaign finance, and grassroots representation. The legacy of past corruption scandals looms large, fueling skepticism about any move that could potentially reintroduce avenues for illicit funding. Yet, the desire to strengthen local party organizations and provide a more equitable environment for politicians outside the mainstream is also a valid concern. The accompanying changes, such as increasing proportional representation and expanding medium-sized constituencies, indicate a broader effort to reform the electoral system, though their effectiveness and fairness remain subjects of intense debate.

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The agreement to settle on 14% after the Democratic Party argued for 15% and the People Power Party for 13% is a conspiracy between the two major parties.