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4h ago

DP Ethics Panel Votes to Expel Rep. Kim Byung-kee Over Misconduct Allegations

The recommendation now moves to party leaders, then a lawmakers' vote under party rules.

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Former Democratic Party floor leader Rep. Kim Byung-kee leaves the party building after attending a meeting of the party's ethics committee on Jan. 12, 2026. (Yonhap)
Ex-floor leader of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) Kim Byung-kee leaves the party building in Seoul after attending the DP's ethics panel to examine allegations of bribe-taking and misconduct in this photo taken Jan. 12, 2026. (Yonhap)

Overview

  • Kim appealed the decision and asked for more time to explain, saying he will not quit voluntarily and maintains his innocence.
  • Party officials plan a Supreme Council review on Wednesday followed by a lawmakers’ vote on Thursday, a timeline that could shift due to his appeal.
  • If finalized, expulsion would bar Kim from rejoining the Democratic Party for five years and from running as a party candidate in 2028.
  • Ethics chief Han Dong-soo said the panel weighed the gravity of the case and acted on allegations still within the party’s three-year disciplinary limit.
  • The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency is investigating claims that include bribe-taking tied to nominations, misuse of funds by his spouse, and other perks.