'97 GMC Jimmy - Stuck Key

I have a '97 GMC Jimmy 4.3 l V-6 with 115K miles on it. Lately I have been having difficulty removing the key from the ignition. If I wait a few minutes the key eventually released.



My first response was to replace the battery since I know that the key will not release when dead. However, after replacing the battery, the key eventually became stuck again.



I have read some online forums that recommend to stick a pen into the plug just below the ignition key however I would like a more permanent solution.



Any recommendations?