The President Yoon Suk Yeol is considering restoring the political rights of Kim Kyung-soo, a former liberal politician and ally of ex-President Moon Jae-in. Kim was previously pardoned in December, allowing him to avoid the remaining five months of his two-year jail sentence for attempting to manipulate online comments to influence voters. However, the pardon did not remove his disqualification from running for public office for the next five years. If Yoon decides to fully restore Kim's rights, it could present a significant challenge to the ruling People Power Party, as Kim was once considered a strong contender for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination. The potential restoration of Kim's political rights has sparked division within the conservative camp, with some expressing opposition due to concerns about his past actions undermining democracy. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party, which is currently backing Rep. Lee Jae-myung as its top presidential candidate, may face a challenge to his bid if Kim, a close ally of ex-President Moon, is allowed to re-enter the political arena. The situation has led to public statements from prominent figures within both parties, highlighting the complexity and tensions surrounding the issue.
The President Yoon Suk Yeol is considering restoring the political rights of Kim Kyung-soo, a former liberal politician and ally of ex-President Moon Jae-in. Kim was previously pardoned in December, allowing him to avoid the remaining five months of his two-year jail sentence for attempting to manipulate online comments to influence voters. However, the pardon did not remove his disqualification from running for public office for the next five years. If Yoon decides to fully restore Kim's rights, it could present a significant challenge to the ruling People Power Party, as Kim was once considered a strong contender for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination. The potential restoration of Kim's political rights has sparked division within the conservative camp, with some expressing opposition due to concerns about his past actions undermining democracy. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party, which is currently backing Rep. Lee Jae-myung as its top presidential candidate, may face a challenge to his bid if Kim, a close ally of ex-President Moon, is allowed to re-enter the political arena. The situation has led to public statements from prominent figures within both parties, highlighting the complexity and tensions surrounding the issue.