New South Korean Lawmaker Sparks Debate with Critical Remarks on National Assembly

Lee Jin-sook, a newly elected lawmaker from the People Power Party, made a strong statement on her first day in the National Assembly, recalling deeply negative personal experiences with the legislative body. As a former chair of the Broadcasting and Communications Committee, Lee stated she had "very bad memories" of the assembly, referencing the passage of a bill that led to her automatic dismissal and a subsequent incident where she was handcuffed after attending a parliamentary session following her removal.

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I personally have very bad memories of the National Assembly's standing committee rooms and the plenary chamber.

Her candid remarks, made during her oath-taking and introductory speech, immediately sparked a heated exchange with members of the Democratic Party. Shouts of "Then don't do it" and "That's why you got elected" were heard from the Democratic side, causing a brief commotion in the plenary chamber. Lee, however, continued, emphasizing her renewed commitment to serving the public's will despite her past grievances.

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Then don't do it.

Lee also addressed the recent issue of ballot paper shortages during a June 3 by-election, expressing dismay that such a problem occurred in the 21st century. She urged fellow lawmakers to hold those responsible accountable, warning that public criticism would be directed at the National Assembly if the issue is ignored. "If the lawmakers, who are the representatives of the people, do not hold anyone accountable and just let it pass, the arrows of public criticism will be aimed at the National Assembly," she stated.

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It is extremely regrettable and unacceptable that an incident where people could not vote due to a shortage of ballot papers, or had to wait for hours, occurred in the 21st century South Korea.

Following Lee's remarks, fellow People Power Party lawmaker Kim Tae-gyu, also a former official at the Broadcasting and Communications Committee, echoed similar sentiments. Kim described his past experience at the committee as one where he "waited endlessly for a chance to speak" and felt he had "endured harsh attacks." He pledged to act rationally if he were to return to a similar role but vowed to stand firm on his principles when necessary. Kim also criticized the ballot paper issue, humorously suggesting that "K-democracy" should not be exported if it involves a lack of paper for voting, calling it "embarrassing."

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If the lawmakers, who are the representatives of the people, do not hold anyone accountable and just let it pass, the arrows of public criticism will be aimed at the National Assembly.