Seoul—President Yoon Suk Yeol granted a special pardon to former South Gyeongsang Governor Kim Kyoung-soo on Tuesday, ahead of Liberation Day, restoring his rights to run for public office despite some controversy within the ruling party. This decision marks a significant political development given Kim's previous conviction for involvement in an online opinion manipulation scheme.
According to Yonhap News Agency, The pardon, endorsed by President Yoon following recommendations from a justice ministry panel and approval in a Cabinet meeting, comes after Kim, a close associate of former President Moon Jae-in, was initially pardoned in December 2022 with five months remaining in his two-year prison term for his role in the 2017 presidential election scheme. Although he was previously pardoned, his civilian rights were not reinstated, which would have prevented him from seeking public office until December 2027. The recent decision to restore these rights has stirred reactions within political circles, with objections notably from People Power Party chief Han Dong-hoon, who cited Kim's lack of remorse. Special pardons are a presidential prerogative typically exercised to promote national harmony and reward good behavior, often during significant national holidays or at the beginning of the new year.