Democratic Party and Rebuilding Korea Party clash over political integration

The Democratic Party of Korea and the Rebuilding Korea Party are experiencing significant friction regarding potential political solidarity and integration. Democratic Party leader Kim Min-seok has proposed lowering the threshold for forming a parliamentary negotiating group from 20 seats to 15, claiming that discussions with progressive parties have already reached a consensus.

However, Rebuilding Korea Party leader Shin Jang-sik has publicly refuted these claims, stating that no formal negotiations have taken place beyond a single phone call. Shin accused Kim of misrepresenting the facts to seize political initiative and suggested that the 15-seat proposal lacks genuine reform intent, as the Rebuilding Korea Party maintains a party stance of a 10-seat threshold.

Further tension has arisen over the issue of dual party membership. Kim Min-seok stated that resolving dual membership must be a prerequisite for any potential merger to facilitate party member votes. The Rebuilding Korea Party has expressed skepticism, noting the practical difficulties in verifying member lists. The conflict highlights a struggle for leadership and autonomy, with the Rebuilding Korea Party wary of being absorbed into a framework dictated by the Democratic Party.