Former Newspapermen Take the National Assembly

Several veteran journalists have been elected to Congress, and they are claiming that they are ready to serve using their hands-on newspaper experience.

The former managing editor for Joongang Ilbo, Ko Hung-kil was the winner of the Pundang-kab riding in Kyonggi Province for the Grand National Party(GNP). Also Park Pyong-sok, deputy managing editor for the Joongang Ilbo won the Soku-kab seat for the Millennium Democratic People(MDP) in Taejon. After the announcement of his victory, Ko promised that he would do his "best to make Pundang an independent city and abolish the toll charges at the Pankyo Interchange".

Park Pyong-sok won his congressional seat by a fraction, a win made more remarkable by the fact that it lies in the heart of Chongchong Province, a traditionally United Liberal Party(ULD) stronghold. He said that "it is clear that the citizens of Taejon are free from regional antagonism."

Kim Song-ho(38), a former reporter at Hankyore Daily News was elected to the Kanso-ul riding of western Seoul. Kim commented that the legislator's most important duty is "to solve the problems of the constiuency. I will always talk with my constituents to ensure clean, 'open politics'". Kim was the 'dark horse' for the MDP set to defeat Lee Shin-bom of the GNP known for his constant stream of attacks against President Kim. From the opening of the polls, Kim was strong, and with his win proved to be the right choice for the MDP.

Lee Nak-yon, who won the Hampyong-Yongkwang district in South Cholla Province, used to serve as editor of the international desk at Donga Ilbo. Asked for a comment, Lee stated, "During my 21 years in journalism, I felt we needed a politician who speaks clearly, truthfully for the people. I will do my best to be such a politician".

by Park Hyunsun