South Korean National Assembly Opens Interpellation Session Amid Clashes Over Constitution and Cabinet

The National Assembly began a four day interpellation session on Wednesday, with the ruling Democratic Party (DP) and the opposition People Power Party (PPP) clashing over President Lee Jae Myung's Cabinet nominees, constitutional revision, and prosecution reform. A primary point of contention is a proposed constitutional amendment to establish a four year, two term presidential system. While the DP emphasizes the need for this restructuring, the PPP argues the move could allow President Lee to seek another term. Prime Minister Han Seong-sook ruled out the possibility that the amendment would allow the president to serve multiple terms, stating that the administration has already clarified its stance on the matter.

The opposition PPP also criticized the nominations of Justice Minister nominee Kim Seung-won and Gender Equality Minister nominee Yong Hye-in. Rep. Na Kyung-won described the picks as a personnel fiasco, while Rep. Yun Jae-ok called for the nominees to be replaced. Kim faces allegations regarding illegal lobbying for a COVID 19 treatment in 2021, and Yong has been criticized for retaining her National Assembly seat. Prime Minister Han defended the nominees, citing their expertise and noting that confirmation hearings would provide them an opportunity to rebut the claims.

Additionally, lawmakers debated the liberal bloc's plan for prosecution reform, which involves stripping the prosecution of its power to conduct direct investigations. The DP maintains that this reform is driven by public desire, while the PPP argues that the overhaul could have been handled through more moderate reforms. The session will continue through next Monday, covering foreign affairs, economic affairs, and social issues.