The so-called 'Special Prosecutor Bill' passed the National Assembly on November 6 after a contentious debate. The ruling People Power Party attempted to block the bill through a filibuster but was unsuccessful. In response, the party plans to escalate its protests, starting with a rally in the National Assembly and extending to demonstrations near the Blue House.
On this day, the National Assembly convened and voted on the 'Law on the Appointment of a Special Prosecutor to Investigate Allegations of Manipulated Investigations and Indictments by the Prosecutor's Office, National Intelligence Service, and Board of Audit and Inspection under the Yoon Suk Yeol Administration.' Out of 168 lawmakers present, 167 voted in favor, while one opposed. The People Power Party did not participate in the vote.
The Special Prosecutor Bill was introduced to the Assembly on November 5, led by the Democratic Party. Following its introduction, the People Power Party initiated a filibuster, prompting the Democratic Party to submit a motion to end the debate. According to National Assembly rules, the motion was put to a vote 24 hours later, resulting in the filibuster's forced conclusion. The vote proceeded immediately afterward, leading to the bill's passage.
The People Power Party has opposed the bill, claiming it serves as a 'shield' for President Lee Jae-myung's related cases. They plan to take their protests beyond the Assembly to sway public opinion.
Starting with a rally on the steps of the National Assembly, the opposition plans to hold an outdoor demonstration near Gyeongbokgung Station on November 7. On November 9, they will convene a Supreme Council meeting in front of the Blue House and engage in individual protests. On November 10, when the bill is expected to be approved at the Cabinet meeting, they will hold a general meeting of lawmakers in front of the Blue House to continue their opposition efforts.
People Power Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk criticized the bill during the rally, stating, "Today marks the death of the rule of law in South Korea. Bad laws are disguised as legal measures, undermining our nation." He announced plans to protest at Gyeongbokgung Station the following afternoon.
In contrast, the Democratic Party remains focused on government tasks and budget processing, undeterred by the opposition's protests. Democratic Party spokesperson Lee Joo-hee stated after a meeting that they should not be swayed by outdoor protests and should properly address the remaining government tasks by the end of the year.
Democratic Party floor leader Han Byeong-do also urged the People Power Party during a Supreme Council meeting to cease irresponsible political struggles and fulfill their duties as the main opposition party, even during the audit and budget review periods.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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