DP leader launches task force to widen political unity

Ruling Democratic Party (DP) leader Kim Min-seok ordered the launch of a task force Monday aimed at achieving broader political unity and expanding cooperation with other parties.

Kim made the remarks during a meeting of the party's supreme council, saying the task force, to be placed under his direct leadership, will spearhead a sweeping push to strengthen ties across political blocs.

"We will build an unbreakable bridge of dialogue with the main opposition People Power Party, and a bridge of political solidarity for the future with progressive and liberal parties," he said.

The task force will be headed by four-term DP lawmaker Park Beom-kye, he added.

The move draws attention to whether Kim will revive efforts to merge with the minor Rebuilding Korea Party after a similar push under former DP leader Jung Chung-rae fell through.

Kim also said the party will launch a separate task force to review problems raised during the DP's recent leadership election and recommend changes to its election system. The task force will consist mainly of outside experts.

Yonhap