Second day of President Lee Jae-myung, agenda for the 426th National Assembly (extraordinary session) first plenary session (including special investigation law)

The necessity of legislation towards justice and truth

Justice and truth are very important values in our society. For the democratic functions of society to operate properly, the state must uphold these values. In particular, when power infringes on justice and distorts truth, legislation is a slow but necessary process. The National Assembly, as an institution with this responsibility, plays a crucial role in realizing the justice that society demands. The introduction of various bills during the 426th National Assembly on June 5, 2025, can be seen as part of this need. The bills presented this time carry the meaning of being the first step toward realizing the justice that the people desire, going beyond mere political issues.

Status of the proposed bill

The bills discussed in this plenary session are all matters of political importance and national interest. These bills address issues related to power, judicial justice, and national security. In particular, the simultaneous presentation of multiple special prosecutor laws indicates that the legal demands of society are continually increasing. This can be seen as a result of reflecting the aspirations for justice desired by the members, rather than an extension of absolute political strife. When examining the background and key content of the proposed bills in detail, it becomes apparent that these are significant issues that could shake the foundation of the nation.

Special Prosecution Act: National Affairs Manipulation and Illegal Election Intervention

The first bill presented this time is the special prosecutor law related to Kim Geon-hee and the National Affairs manipulation and illegal election interference. This bill aims to address the public's distrust regarding various criminal suspicions surrounding former President Yoon Seok-yeol and Kim Geon-hee. Amid criticism that the prosecutor's investigation has been insufficient, the necessity for an independent investigative body has led to the proposal of this bill. The investigation targets a total of 15 cases, including stock price manipulation, bribery, and solicitation of personnel appointments, and a prosecutor team including public officials will be formed. Additionally, some media briefings on the results of the investigation will be allowed, and this bill appears to be a necessary step to clarify the substantive truth.

Amendment of the Prosecutors Disciplinary Act: Efforts for Fairness

The following is a partial revision bill of the Inspection and Discipline Act. This bill aims to extend the disciplinary authority, which is currently concentrated within the prosecution, to external entities. It is seen as a measure to enhance fairness and accountability. The bill grants the Minister of Justice the right to file disciplinary complaints and establishes oversight investigation authority to increase the transparency of the prosecution. This aims to enable external control over the prosecution, and the provisions included in the revision will play an important role in reorganizing the supervisory system for prosecutors and establishing the supremacy of the law.

Special Prosecutor Law: Former President Yoon Seok-yeol's Charges of Insurrection

The third proposed bill is related to the special prosecutor law concerning former President Yoon Seok-yeol's allegations of insurrection and foreign exchange violations. The background for this proposal is the suspicion that the former president attempted to declare martial law and neutralize the National Assembly. This is perceived as a serious challenge to democratic order, and it has been argued that a fair and independent investigation is necessary. The investigation targets a total of 10 cases, including the attempted martial law and media control, and it is confirmed that detailed investigation processes and organizational structures are specified. This bill is considered an important measure to protect the nation's democracy.

Special Investigation Law: Marine Corporal Chae Soo-geun Case

Lastly, there is a bill related to the case of Special Inspector Cha Soo-geun. This incident occurred in the summer of 2023, and due to the complexity of the matter, suspicions continue to arise. Various circumstances, such as unreasonable orders and obstruction of investigation, have come to light regarding this case, and the demand for a fact-finding investigation to resolve these issues has gradually increased. The bill could serve as a cornerstone for restoring trust in the military and the government. It includes provisions for a certified investigative team to conduct the investigation and a prohibition on the leakage of information to the outside.

Conclusion: The Role of Legislation and the Will of the People

The introduction of these bills is not merely an extension of political confrontation, but a part of the effort to secure the rights to justice that society desires. The legislature is striving to bridge the gap between power and justice. Now, how these bills will actually develop depends on the will of the National Assembly, the political sphere, and each individual citizen. While the law cannot substitute for justice, it is the role of the law to pave the way to justice. Therefore, we hope that these bills can truly represent the voices of the people.