Seoul: Kim Min-seok, a prominent strategist of the ruling Democratic Party, has been nominated to become President Lee Jae-myung's first prime minister. At age 61, Kim is a seasoned politician and a four-term lawmaker, known for his strategic acumen and close ties with President Lee as part of the "New Lee Jae-myung" faction.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim began his political journey as a democracy activist, serving as the president of the student body during the pro-democracy movement in the 1980s while pursuing a sociology degree at Seoul National University. His political career gained momentum in 1996 when he was elected to the National Assembly at the age of 32, making him the youngest member at that time. He successfully secured reelection four years later.
In a bid to further his political career, Kim resigned in 2002 to run for the mayor of Seoul, a race he lost to Lee Myung-bak. However, he made a comeback to the National Assembly in 2020 and maintained his influence by winning a fourth term during the parliamentary elections last year. Throughout his career, Kim has held significant positions within the Democratic Party, notably serving as the chief policymaker and a senior member of its Supreme Council.
Kim's strategic expertise was further highlighted during the recent presidential campaign, where he served as a standing co-chief of the Democratic Party's election committee. His nomination as prime minister underscores his pivotal role in shaping the political landscape under President Lee's administration.