Will Kim Boo-kyum Accept the Challenge? Key Insights on His Potential Bid for Daegu Mayor

Democratic Party leader Jeong Cheong-rae (left) and former Prime Minister Kim Bu-gyeom clasp hands before their meeting on the 26th at Dalgabbi in Jung-gu, Seoul. /National Assembly Press Photographers Group

Democratic Party leader Jeong Cheong-rae met with former Prime Minister Kim Bu-gyeom on the 26th and repeatedly urged him to run as the Democratic Party’s candidate for Daegu mayor in the June 3 local elections. Kim indicated he is leaning toward entering the race, saying, “It will be hard to avoid running.” He said he will announce his official position on the 30th.

At their meeting on the 26th at Dalgabbi in Jung-gu, Seoul, Jeong told Kim, “You’re the only surefire candidate who can win the Daegu mayoral race,” and pressed him to enter the contest. Jeong had already publicly urged Kim to run at an executive meeting in Bongha Village, Gimhae, on the 23rd.

Jeong said at the meeting, “I’ve gone to ask him repeatedly; we can’t delay any longer.” He pleaded, “Put the party before personal concerns. Decline an easy path and run for mayor in Daegu. I urgently ask you to show the same spirit you displayed as a member of the National Assembly.”

Jeong also referenced the party’s No. 1 local-election pledge, the “We’ll Take Care of It Center,” and said, “If that’s what Kim wants, I’d be willing to serve as its director and do whatever is needed,” offering full support.

He added that, as party leader, he sometimes worries he is asking too much by urging Kim to return to Daegu, and said, “I’m honestly sorry, but please decide for the greater good.”

Kim said he will announce on the 30th whether he will run for Daegu mayor. At the meeting he said Jeong had “cut off my escape routes,” and added that younger colleagues and old comrades active in Daegu had pleaded, “Let’s endure the hardship one more time.” That appeal made it difficult for him to dismiss the prospect of running.

He also spoke candidly about his earlier doubts. Kim said, “When Jeong spoke publicly in Bongha Village last week, I wondered, ‘Can I withstand the party’s request?’ and ‘What can I offer Daegu citizens to persuade them to join me?’” He said one reason for his hesitation was questioning whether he would find the passion to return after stepping back from politics. Another was the weight of public office — if he returns, he must be prepared, and he feared he might not be.

Many inside and outside political circles now believe Kim has already decided to run. The Democratic Party also appears increasingly hopeful about his candidacy.