Story perspectives

Governor Expelled After Controversial Comments on Migrant Women

2/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Jindo County Governor Kim Hee-soo was expelled from the Democratic Party after proposing to "import" women from Vietnam and Sri Lanka to address declining birth rates.
The comments were made at a town hall meeting, sparking outrage.
The Vietnamese embassy condemned the remarks as reflecting negative attitudes toward migrant women.
Kim apologized for his language, and the South Jeolla provincial government pledged to prevent future discriminatory language.

History

Historical Context

The 2016–2017 South Korean protests erupted against President Park Geun-hye amid a corruption scandal involving her confidante Choi Soon-sil, leading to her impeachment in December 2016. Over 1 million citizens participated in demonstrations demanding her resignation, reflecting widespread discontent with political corruption and societal issues, including immigration and gender roles, that continue to challenge South Korea today.

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Story summary

Jindo County Governor Kim Hee-soo was expelled from the Democratic Party after proposing to "import" women from Vietnam and Sri Lanka to address declining birth rates.
The comments were made at a town hall meeting, sparking outrage.
The Vietnamese embassy condemned the remarks as reflecting negative attitudes toward migrant women.
Kim apologized for his language, and the South Jeolla provincial government pledged to prevent future discriminatory language.

1 / 2