Kim Min-seok launches party leadership push after returning to South Korea’s National Assembly

Former South Korean prime minister Kim Min-seok has moved back to the National Assembly and begun organizing a campaign to become leader of the ruling Democratic Party. His team set up an office in Yeouido and activated a strategic office, with former Seoul mayor‑candidate Yeom Tae‑young appointed as campaign chief, and senior figures such as Hwang Myeong‑seon, Yoon Jong‑gun and Kim Tae‑sun joining the effort.

In his first remarks after leaving the premiership, Kim criticized former party head Jung Chang‑rae, saying, “There’s no need for you to serve as party leader again,” and argued that the party now needs “a different colour, capability and style of leadership.” He added that the government’s agenda, centered on President Lee Jae‑myung, requires fresh leadership and pledged to speak more freely now that he is no longer constrained by his prime‑ministerial role.