Rep. Kim Seong-won of the People Power Party (representing Dongducheon, Yangju, and Yeoncheon) on the 12th officially declared his candidacy for the party's floor leader, stating, "Now is the time to reflect deeply on past mistakes and to begin a strong new wave of conservatism."
On the morning of the same day at 10:30 a.m. in the National Assembly's communication hall, Rep. Kim said during a press conference, "I understand the meaning of the reforms and changes that the people and party members are demanding from our People Power Party better than anyone. I can solve this issue," as he announced his candidacy for floor leader.
He emphasized, "We need to rebuild as a conservative party with flexible thinking, a practical attitude, and the ability to resolve difficult issues. The People Power Party must be reset to become a party where both principled conservatism and rational centrism thrive."
Highlighting that he is a three-term member from the capital region, he said, "The decisive reason why the People Power Party suffered defeat in the last general election is that we could not win the sentiment of the people in the capital area. In the consecutive presidential elections, we also finished second by a large margin," adding, "Therefore, it is now crucial for me, who knows the public sentiment in the capital area best, to become the floor leader of the People Power Party. That is the start of reforms and changes."
He pointed out that the most urgent task is to establish "internal party democracy." Rep. Kim stated, "Our internal party democracy has not functioned properly, leading to a disconnect between public sentiment and party spirit," and added, "I will immediately establish a party culture where the internal democracy system functions normally."
Regarding the lending fight, he said, "If the ruling party, intoxicated by its overwhelming power, attempts to carry out leftist dictatorship or political revenge, we will strongly resist together with the people," and added, "I will work with the public to prevent the ruling party from derailing into leftist populism."
Finally, he emphasized, "This election is the first test for the reconstruction of conservatism. A new figure representing the capital region, I, Kim Seong-won, must lead the People Power Party," and concluded, "I will definitely create the day when all People Power Party members regain majority support. I will take the lead on that path."
After being elected in the 20th general election, Rep. Kim rose to three-term status representing Dongducheon, Yangju, and Yeoncheon. He has served as the secretary of the Special Committee on Budget & Accounts, chief spokesperson of the People Power Party, deputy head of the organization committee, and deputy floor leader.