Former Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum is set to declare his candidacy for the upcoming Daegu mayoral election as early as this week, a move that has been anticipated by political analysts and party officials alike. Jo Seung-rae, the Secretary-General of the Democratic Party, hinted at Kim's imminent decision during a conference with reporters at the National Assembly, stating that various communication channels with Kim had been utilized. While the exact date of the announcement is not specified, discussions regarding candidate nominations are scheduled to occur at the party's nomination management committee meetings on either the 24th or the 27th of this month.

Jo's comments come against the backdrop of ongoing discussions within the Democratic Party about the potential benefits of selecting Kim as a mayoral candidate. He emphasized the dire economic conditions of Daegu, noting that the region has recorded some of the lowest total production and income levels for nearly thirty years. In light of the unsuccessful unification of Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province, Jo argued that the region needs strong leadership capable of directly communicating with the president and the central government to resolve pressing issues and stimulate development. He expressed confidence in Kim's capabilities to address these major local concerns effectively.

Kim Boo-kyum's political background reinforces his potential effectiveness as a candidate. Having been elected as a member of the National Assembly from the district known as 'the political heart of Daegu' during the 2016 general elections, Kim brings with him significant experience within the Democratic Party. His familiarity with the region's political landscape, coupled with his previous tenure as Prime Minister, positions him as a viable candidate who could mobilize support and address Daegu's longstanding socio-economic challenges.