Kim made his controversial suggestion against the backdrop of rapidly declining birth rates in South Korea, where the birth rate is one of the lowest in the world. It is projected that this could lead to a reduction in the country's population from 50 million to 25 million over the next 60 years.
However, his words sparked widespread public outcry: they led to a diplomatic protest from Vietnam and provoked a negative reaction in society. In response, Kim attempted to apologize the next day, but his efforts were unsuccessful.
The meeting where his comments were made was organized to discuss the potential merger of Jindo County with a neighboring city, which is a pressing issue for many regions with declining populations.
Kim also noted that his goal was to draw attention to population issues in rural areas, but he acknowledged that his phrasing was "inappropriate," according to local media.
South Jeolla Province also issued an official apology for Kim's words, which they believe "caused deep pain to the Vietnamese people and women." The Vietnamese embassy in Seoul condemned the official's remarks, stating that they reflect not only a personal opinion but also raise important questions about values and attitudes towards migrant women.
As for Sri Lanka, the authorities of that country have not yet commented on the situation. Meanwhile, representatives of human rights organizations advocating for the rights of women and migrants plan to hold a rally in front of the Jindo County administration building in response to Kim's comments.
On Monday, a representative of the Democratic Party reported that the party's Supreme Council unanimously voted to expel Kim from its ranks.
