Former Democratic Party of Korea floor leader Kim Byung-kee said on the 19th that he would "leave the party without requesting a retrial by the Ethics Tribunal."
Kim held an emergency press conference at the National Assembly's press room that morning and stated accordingly, "If differences of opinion arise within the party because of me and if I become even a small burden on my colleagues, I believe I should fully shoulder that burden," announcing his decision.
Kim said, "I have said that even if I am expelled, I would not choose to leave the party on my own," adding, "That position remains the same now. I am confident I can clearly explain everything through the police investigation."
He continued, "I earnestly ask the Democratic Party. If, in a situation where I do not file for a retrial, the Ethics Tribunal seeks expulsion, please consider concluding the matter by a decision of the Supreme Council," and requested, "I do not want to impose even a small emotional burden on senior, peer, and junior lawmakers by putting it to a general meeting of lawmakers for approval."
He went on, "The police investigation is already proceeding swiftly. Please watch calmly until the results come out," adding, "The substantive truth will surely be revealed," and emphasizing, "I will faithfully undergo questioning and submit all related evidence to prove my innocence."
On the 12th, the Democratic Party's Ethics Tribunal reviewed 13 allegations of misconduct, including the alleged acceptance of nomination bribes surrounding the former floor leader Kim, and voted to expel him. At the time, Kim expressed his intention to immediately seek a retrial, but he reversed his initial stance that day.