Rep. Kim Byung-kee, floor leader of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea, resigned on December 30 amid allegations of misconduct and abuse of power. He apologized for using free accommodation from Korean Air and family-related improprieties during a party meeting at the National Assembly. The resignation, coming 200 days after he assumed the role, aims to spare the party and President Lee Jae-myung's administration further burden.
On December 30, Rep. Kim Byung-kee announced his resignation as floor leader of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea during a party meeting at the National Assembly in Seoul. He faced mounting pressure from allegations including receiving preferential treatment, such as using free accommodation provided by Korean Air in the past, and abusing his power by instructing aides to assist his son with work tasks, as well as his wife misusing district council funds for personal use.
"There were acts that fell far short of the public's common sense and point of view, and my shortcomings are entirely responsible. I truly apologize," Kim stated. He added, "This resignation decision isn't meant to evade responsibility but is my resolve to take greater responsibility after determining right from wrong."
The move comes exactly 200 days after Kim assumed the floor leadership role in June 2025. He emphasized that stepping down would prevent burdening the party and President Lee Jae-myung's administration. The Democratic Party plans to swiftly select a successor, and the incident highlights ongoing ethical challenges within the ruling party amid its early days under the new presidency.
Photographs from the scene show Kim bowing in apology outside the National Assembly building. This development underscores scrutiny on political misconduct in South Korea's National Assembly.
