Kim Moon-soo is a prominent South Korean politician whose journey from a labor rights activist to a conservative political figure reflects the dynamic and often complex nature of South Korea's political landscape. Born in 1951 in Yeongcheon, North Gyeongsang Province, Kim's life story intertwines with the nation's struggles for democracy, labor rights, and political transformation.The Korea Times+1Wikipedia+1
Early Life and Education
Kim Moon-soo's early years were marked by academic challenges and political activism. He graduated from Yeongcheon Elementary School and later attended Gyeongbuk Middle School and Gyeongbuk High School in Daegu, living apart from his family. In 1970, he enrolled in the Department of Business Administration at Seoul National University. However, his involvement in the October 15 nationwide student protests in 1971 led to his expulsion. In 1974, he was expelled again due to his participation in the National Democratic Youth and Students Union case. Despite these setbacks, Kim reentered the university in 1994 and graduated in 1996, 25 years after his initial acceptance .Wikipedia
Labor Movement and Activism
In the 1970s, Kim Moon-soo became deeply involved in labor activism. He worked as an assistant cloth cutter at a fabric plant in Cheonggyecheon and obtained national engineer's licenses in environmental and safety management in 1977. His commitment to workers' rights led him to become the leader of the Dorco Labor Union within the Federation of Korean Metal Workers Trade Unions in 1978. During this period, Kim was arrested and tortured by the dictatorial government in 1980. Although his indictment was suspended, he continued to serve for Dorco. He also served as the secretary of the Jun Tae-Il Memorial Society in 1985 and was arrested again for participating in the Incheon May 3 Protest for Constitutional Amendment for Direct Election System in 1986. This led to his imprisonment for two and a half years .Wikipedia
Political Career
Entry into Politics
Kim Moon-soo's political journey began in 1990 when he participated in the foundation of the People's Party and served as chair of the Labor Relations Committee. In 1996, he joined the New Korea Party and won a parliamentary seat for Sosa-gu, Bucheon. He was re-elected in the 16th and 17th National Assemblies, serving for three consecutive terms. During his tenure, Kim focused on labor and environmental issues, transportation in the Seoul metropolitan area, and childcare. He also served as the deputy floor leader for the Grand National Party .Wikipedia+1The Korea Times+1
Governor of Gyeonggi Province
In 2006, Kim Moon-soo retired from the National Assembly to run for the governorship of Gyeonggi Province. He was elected as the 32nd Governor of Gyeonggi Province, taking office in July 2006. During his tenure, Kim focused on regional development and administrative reforms. He was re-elected in 2010 and served until 2014. His governance was marked by efforts to improve public services and infrastructure in the province .Wikipedia
Presidential Aspirations
In April 2012, Kim Moon-soo declared his candidacy in the primary election of the Saenuri Party for the presidential nomination. He asserted that the nomination of Park Geun-hye should not be viewed as axiomatic, despite a decade of preparation for the campaign on her part . However, he was not successful in securing the nomination.Wikipedia
In April 2025, following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, Kim Moon-soo announced his candidacy for the 2025 South Korean presidential election. He positioned himself as a strong opponent to Lee Jae-myung, stating, “I am the right candidate for Lee Jae-myung's opponent” .Wikipedia
Minister of Employment and Labor
In August 2024, Kim Moon-soo was appointed as the Minister of Employment and Labor under President Yoon Suk-yeol. His appointment was seen as a significant shift, considering his background as a labor rights activist. However, his tenure was short-lived, ending in April 2025. During his time in office, Kim focused on labor market reforms and employment policies, aiming to balance the interests of workers and employers .WikipediaThe Korea Times
Publications
Throughout his career, Kim Moon-soo has authored several publications reflecting his political and social views. Some of his notable works include:
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Statements of Appeal of Ten Prisoners of Conscience in the 1980s (1987)
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Report on Workers’ Rights in 1992 (1993)
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Innovation Tasks 20 (co-author, 1994)
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A Necktie Still Does Not Suit Me (1995)
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National Assemblymen Are the Servants of the Citizens
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Mr. President, Why Don't You Take the Subway of Hell? (1996)
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My Way, My Dream (2006)
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I Dream of Freedom in Gyeonggi Province, a Prison of Regulations (2008)
Personal Life
Kim Moon-soo is married and has children. He is known for his disciplined lifestyle and commitment to public service. Despite his conservative political stance, his early life as a labor rights activist continues to influence his perspectives on social issues.
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