Kim Kyung-soo is back! How will the power dynamics in the Democratic Party change?

📢 "Kim Kyung-soo is back! How will the power dynamics in the Democratic Party change?"

Kim Kyung-soo, the former governor of South Gyeongsang Province, has officially rejoined the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK). Party leader Lee Jae-myung welcomed his return, declaring his vision for a "bigger Democratic Party." However, this return is unlikely to be just a simple homecoming event. Given the subtle tensions between the pro-Roh (Roh Moo-hyun), pro-Moon (Moon Jae-in) factions and Lee Jae-myung's leadership, Kim’s comeback could introduce a new power dynamic.

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🎭 Past Balance: Pro-Moon vs. Lee Jae-myung

Lee Jae-myung has had a complicated relationship with the pro-Moon faction within the party. During the 2021 presidential primary, he attempted to distance himself from the Moon Jae-in administration while still appealing to the party's dominant pro-Moon base.

After his 2022 presidential election loss, Lee strengthened his grip on the party, shifting its structure towards a pro-Lee Jae-myung (pro-Myung) system. However, the pro-Moon faction never completely disappeared. While figures like former Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon left or remained silent, their influence lingered.

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🔥 Kim Kyung-soo’s Return: A Pro-Moon Resurgence?

Kim Kyung-soo is a key ally of former President Moon Jae-in and previously served time for his involvement in the “Druking” comment manipulation scandal. Despite this, he still holds significant trust within the pro-Moon faction. His return could signal a resurgence of the pro-Moon base rather than just a personal political comeback.

For Lee Jae-myung, this may not be entirely welcome. Having emphasized party unity under his leadership, the emergence of a strong pro-Moon figure could challenge the current balance of power.

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🧐 Kim Kyung-soo: Challenger or Ally?

For now, Kim Kyung-soo remains cautious. He has dismissed speculation about forming a presidential campaign team, calling such discussions premature. However, political observers believe he could play a role in the next presidential race.

Commentator Yoo Si-min has suggested the idea of a “good second-place strategy,” implying that Kim should not directly confront Lee Jae-myung but instead build influence from within.

With the pro-Moon base still active, a solo move by Kim could deepen party divisions, further complicating the internal dynamics.

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🏛 The Future of the Democratic Party: Cooperation or Conflict?

• Will pro-Moon and pro-Myung factions coexist peacefully, or will internal conflicts reignite?
• Can Lee Jae-myung leverage Kim’s return to truly create a "bigger Democratic Party"?
• Or will the pro-Moon faction’s resurgence lead to new political rivalries?

The impact of Kim’s return on Korean politics remains to be seen. What do you think? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇