The National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee began full operation on the 2nd under the leadership of the Democratic Party of Korea. Members of the People Power Party, who did not take part in forming the standing committees, did not attend.
The National Assembly Legislation and Judiciary Committee held its first full meeting on the afternoon of the 2nd. It came two days after electing Seo Young-kyo as the committee chair on Jun. 30.
Chairperson Seo said at the meeting, "Today's meeting was fully communicated to the People Power Party through the administrative office," and added, "We urge the People Power Party to join promptly so we can discuss together." Seo also said, "Our train will proceed as scheduled."
Legislation and Judiciary Committee members from the Democratic Party criticized the People Power Party's absence at the meeting and urged swift participation. Lawmaker Kim Dong-a said, "(People Power Party lawmakers) not attending the committee chamber is shirking their own responsibility," adding, "If they receive generous salaries yet show inadequate legislative activity, it is deeply concerning which citizens would tolerate that."
Lawmaker Lee Seong-yoon also said, "It is truly fortunate that our committee launched today," and added, "It is truly deplorable that the People Power Party's seats are empty." Lee continued, "Only 92 days are left until the launch of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency and the Public Prosecution Service," and noted, "Even if the amendment to the Criminal Procedure Act passes now, many in practice worry whether the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency and the Public Prosecution Service can properly launch on Oct. 2, while the People Power Party is throwing a tantrum."
On this day, the Democratic Party unanimously elected lawmaker Kim Seung-won as secretary. The secretary allotted to the People Power Party was not elected. In addition, the plan to form the Legislation and Judiciary Committee's First Subcommittee on Bill Review was approved.
Meanwhile, in line with the National Assembly speaker's office decision, first-half committee members including lawmakers Gwak Gyu-taek, Na Kyung-won, Song Seok-jun, and Shin Dong-wook remained on the Legislation and Judiciary Committee, but they have submitted letters of resignation. The People Power Party is holding a general meeting of its lawmakers from 2 p.m. to finalize its strategy for responding to the committee formation and its position on the National Assembly's schedule going forward.