1. Overview
Jin Zhenji (金振吉Jīn ZhènjíChinese; Korean 김진길Gim Jin-gilKorean; born February 1959), also known as Kim Jin-gil, is a prominent Chinese politician of Korean ethnic origin. His career has spanned various significant roles within the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the Chinese government, including leadership positions in the Communist Youth League of China, the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, and Jilin Province. He has also served as a member of the CCP's Central Committee and participated in the National People's Congress, reflecting his long-standing involvement in the political landscape of China.
2. Life and Career
Jin Zhenji's career reflects a steady ascent through the ranks of the Chinese Communist Party and government, marked by his dedication to public service and regional development initiatives.
2.1. Early Life and Education
Jin Zhenji was born in February 1959. As a member of the Korean ethnic minority in China, he is also known by his Korean name, Gim Jin-gil. He pursued higher education at Jilin University, where he obtained a degree in global economics (also referred to as world economics).
2.2. Early Career and Party Affiliation
Jin Zhenji began his involvement in social activities in August 1979. Shortly thereafter, in November 1979, he officially joined the Chinese Communist Party. His early leadership roles included serving as the head (or Secretary) of the Communist Youth League of China organization in Jilin Province, and concurrently as the President (or Chairman) of the Youth Federation in Jilin.
2.3. Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture Career
A significant portion of Jin Zhenji's career was dedicated to the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, where he held the positions of Deputy Secretary and Chairman (also referred to as Prefecture Commissioner). During his tenure as Chairman, he spearheaded a notable initiative aimed at fostering regional economic growth: the construction of the 'Greater Yanji Economic Zone'. This ambitious project sought to integrate the economic activities of Yanji City, Longjing City, and Tumen City within the prefecture to create a more robust and unified economic hub.
2.4. Jilin Province Career
In March 2007, Jin Zhenji was appointed Vice Governor of Jilin Province. He continued to rise within the provincial administration, and in April 2011, he was named the head of the Political and Legal Affairs Commission of Jilin Province. Concurrently, he became a member of the Chinese Communist Party Provincial Standing Committee, solidifying his influence within the provincial leadership.
2.5. Central Committee Activities
Jin Zhenji's political career extended to the national level within the Chinese Communist Party. He was selected as an alternate member of both the 17th and 18th Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party. His standing within the party was further elevated in October 2015 when he was promoted to a full membership of the 18th Central Committee. This promotion followed the expulsion of another Central Committee member, Yang Dongliang.
2.6. National People's Congress Participation
Beyond his party and government roles, Jin Zhenji also participated in China's national legislative body. He served as a representative in the 10th National People's Congress, contributing to the legislative processes at the highest level of the Chinese government.