Kim Yong Pressures Party for Nomination Amid Legal Battles

The political maneuvering within the Democratic Party ahead of the upcoming by-elections has taken a dramatic turn, with Kim Yong, a key figure in President Lee Jae-myung's inner circle, openly campaigning for a strategic nomination. Kim, who is currently appealing a conviction for receiving illegal political funds and bribes, has been vocal in his demands, seeking to be nominated in either Ansan or Hanam, Gyeonggi Province.

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I can't say 100%, but since my case has been fully revealed, I think there's a high chance I'll get nominated.

Kim's public appeals are not just personal ambitions; they are framed within a narrative of political persecution. He argues that his case is a result of unprecedented efforts to target President Lee's associates and expresses strong confidence that his appeal will result in a retrial. This confidence fuels his assertion that he is likely to receive a nomination, despite his ongoing legal battles. His specific requests for Ansan or Hanam suggest a calculated approach to securing a winnable seat, while also navigating potential conflicts with other party figures vying for the same districts.

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Historically, there has never been such an abnormal situation where associates of a presidential candidate were hunted like this.

Adding fuel to the fire, several lawmakers and organizations aligned with President Lee have publicly thrown their support behind Kim. This includes statements highlighting his perceived resilience and the "symbolic" nature of his potential return, particularly in the context of challenging what they describe as "검찰 조작기소" (prosecutorial fabricated indictments). This coordinated support suggests a strategic effort to bolster Kim's candidacy and potentially influence the party's nomination decisions, underscoring the deep factional dynamics within the Democratic Party.

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I believe it will naturally result in a retrial by the Supreme Court.

The party leadership, including leader Chung Sye-kyun, has remained somewhat guarded, offering non-committal responses regarding Kim's nomination. However, the persistent and public nature of Kim's campaign, coupled with the backing from influential party members, ensures that this issue will remain a central point of contention as the party finalizes its candidate selections. The situation highlights the complex interplay of personal ambition, legal challenges, and political loyalty shaping the electoral landscape.

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If the party decides between Ansan and Hanam in Gyeonggi Province, I will do my best accordingly.