Seoul: The former floor leader of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) announced his decision to leave the party on Monday, opting not to seek a redeliberation of the ethics panel's decision to expel him. The expulsion was due to allegations of bribe-taking and other misconduct.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the DP's ethics committee voted to expel Kim Byung-kee last Monday after he ignored requests from the party leadership to voluntarily resign his membership. This decision followed persistent calls from the party's leadership, urging the former floor leader to step down.

During a press conference at the National Assembly, Kim stated, "I decided that I should fully shoulder the burden if there is even the slightest disagreement within the party and any burden on my colleagues because of me. I will not seek reconsideration and leave the party." He emphasized his willingness to cooperate with investigations and submit any relevant evidence to establish his innocence.

Kim also requested that the party finalize his expulsion at the Supreme Council level, rather than forwarding the case to a general meeting of lawmakers for approval. Party rules stipulate that the expulsion of a sitting lawmaker requires a majority vote from party lawmakers.

Kim resigned from his position last month following accusations of receiving preferential treatment and abusing his power. There were also allegations that his wife misused a city council's corporate card for personal expenses.