On the 26th, the Presidential Office criticized the Democratic Party’s push for legislation, stating, “The National Assembly has now become the highest authority in the country, and the Legislation and Judiciary Committee plays the most critical role within it.”
A high-ranking official from the Presidential Office expressed in a phone call that day, “This behavior is inappropriate and will eventually lead to unfavorable outcomes for the citizens. It is regrettable that even if the opposition party is in power, they are not adhering to proper procedures.”
During a full committee meeting of the Legislation and Judiciary Committee in the National Assembly the day before, controversial amendments to the so-called Broadcasting Three Laws – Broadcasting Act, Broadcasting Culture Promotion Act, Korea Educational Broadcasting System Act – and amendments to the Act on the Establishment of the Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission were passed solely by the opposition party amidst the objections from the ruling party members.
On the 21st, the Democratic Party conducted a legislative hearing independently as the ruling party abstained, successfully passing the amended Marine Corps Special Prosecutor Act. From the Presidential Office’s perspective, in the 22nd National Assembly where the ruling party lacks influence, they have no option but to accept the unchecked legislative dominance of the opposition.
The Democratic Party has reintroduced the Grain Management Act, Broadcasting Three Laws, Yellow Envelope Law, and Kim Keon Hee Comprehensive Special Prosecutor Act in the 22nd National Assembly.
The Presidential Office has yet to disclose its position on whether to exercise the right to request a reconsideration (veto) on these bills. However, if they pass through the National Assembly plenary session solely with the support of the opposition party, exercising the veto is inevitable.
In this case, the relationship between the ruling and opposition parties is likely to become even more strained, increasing public pressure on Yoon.
A high-ranking official from the Presidential Office said, “Isn’t it impossible to respond?,” adding, “The Democratic Party is determined to proceed towards its goal without hesitation.”
