Jeonbuk Governor Kim Kwan-young, who was expelled from the Democratic Party over allegations of providing cash, has decided to run as an independent candidate in the Jeonbuk gubernatorial election on June 3 and registered as a preliminary candidate Tuesday.
Kim visited the Jeonbuk Election Commission on the same day to register as a preliminary candidate. After registration, he said, "The people of Jeonbuk will make the choice for Jeonbuk," adding, "I will continue without interruption the flow of change we have built together with the residents." He continued, "The future of Jeonbuk must be determined based on the lives of its people and the province's future, not on political interests," adding, "I will ask the residents directly and receive their choice."
Under the Local Autonomy Act, Kim's duties as governor are suspended upon his preliminary candidate registration. After completing the registration, he plans to officially declare his candidacy for the Jeonbuk gubernatorial race Wednesday at the Jeonbuk Provincial Council press briefing room. The Democratic Party is fielding Lee Won-taek as its candidate.
Kim had sought re-election as the Democratic Party's candidate in this local election, but was expelled from the party over allegations that he provided about 1 million won (approximately $690) in cash under the pretext of designated driver fees during a drinking gathering with young party members. Stripped of his candidacy, he has protested the party's action as unfair and has been exploring the possibility of running as an independent.
