Seoul: The leadership of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) has called for former floor leader Rep. Kim Byung-kee to voluntarily resign from the party due to growing corruption suspicions against him. The request was made public on Sunday as part of ongoing efforts to address concerns about Kim's alleged misconduct.

According to Yonhap News Agency, DP spokesperson Park Soo-hyeon emphasized the importance of Kim considering the party's interests by suggesting that he "deeply deliberate on which path best cherishes the party." This statement is widely interpreted as a direct appeal for Kim to relinquish his party membership. Park also noted that there are increasing calls within the party leadership to formally expel Kim if he does not step down on his own.

The demand for Kim's resignation follows his recent departure from his position as the DP's floor leader last month. This move came amid escalating allegations, including accusations that he accepted money from a former local council member in 2020 while he was serving as the secretary of the party's Seoul nomination committee.

Despite the mounting pressure and the possibility of expulsion, Kim has remained resolute in his decision to stay with the party, stating that he will not voluntarily resign.