GNP lawmaker stars in fashion magazine

A female politician has made a surprise debut in a local fashion magazine.

Rep. Na Kyung-won of the ruling Grand National Party starred in the June edition of the women`s magazine Elle. The magazine, which celebrated its 200th edition, published a photographed feature article named "The portrait of Korean Power Women, 2009."



Appearing along side other celebrities including cellist Chung Myung-hwa, figure skating star Kim Yu-na, ballerina Kang Su-jin, actresses Kim Hae-sook and Moon Geun-young, Na represented powerful women in politics.

The former GNP spokeswoman, who has long been known for her refined sense of style, dressed up in a simple look with a black Dries Van Noten blouse matched with a long black Ralph Lauren skirt.

The photograph pictured her sitting on a bench with a book in her hands.

"I accepted the magazine`s offer as the project was for a good purpose," she said.

The accessories worn by the pictured celebrities will be put to auction and part of the profits will be donated to children`s welfare organizations.

Na also delivered some of her inner thoughts in the interview which accompanied the photographs.

"Politics is like a runaway train," Na said. "To have a complete career, one should also be able to step down voluntarily and gracefully."

She feels obliged to make way for junior female politicians in times to come, she also said. "I want to be a politician who approaches the heart of the people."

(tellme@heraldm.com)