This is the second article in a series introducing significant lawmakers-elect of the upcoming 19th National Assembly. ― Ed.


The main opposition Democratic United Party was disappointed by the results of the recent parliamentary elections but succeeded in winning some key battles in the capital.

One of the party’s electoral heroes is political rookie Shin Kyoung-min, who defeated Rep. Kwon Young-se, third-term lawmaker and secretary-general of the ruling Saenuri Party in the Youngdeungpo-B constituency.

His victory was all the more valuable to the party as the constituency has long been a conservative seat. Shin started his bid shortly before candidate registration ended, but soon caught up with his right-wing opponent.

The DUP spokesman’s electoral win also carried a symbolic meaning for the liberal camp, as the corresponding district included Yeouido, where the National Assembly building is located.

Before entering politics this year, Shin worked as a reporter and news anchor at the broadcaster MBC.

During his years as a news anchor, he often made biting remarks on current issues at the end of the news program, which earned him an uncompromising and confident image.

The lawmaker-elect, however, must overcome numerous obstacles from the beginning of his first parliamentary term.

The top priority task is to boost the party’s ratings and reputation by the time of the presidential election in December.

The DUP, despite earlier expectations of winning the majority, failed to take the lead over the Saenuri Party, even when allied with the minority Unified Progressive Party.

He will also likely take a role in resolving the ongoing media walkout involving state broadcaster KBS, MBC and daily Kookmin Ilbo newspaper.

“I decided to take the challenge in an attempt to take part in the issue and achieve democracy in the media,” said the former newsman.

“Freedom of the press is the most fundamental factor in democracy.”

By Bae Hyun-jung  (tellme@heraldcorp.com)