Yeo "Semiconductor Special Act Fast-Track Designation"... 52-Hour Exception Likely to Be Excluded

It may take up to 330 days until the plenary session
Regret over the failure to submit the Commercial Act amendment to the plenary session

The Democratic Party of Korea decided on the 27th to designate the Semiconductor Special Act as a fast-track bill. The plan is to exclude the clause applying the 52-hour workweek exception in the semiconductor research and development (R&D) sector and proceed with the fast-track procedure.

Jin Seong-jun, the chairman of the Policy Committee, said at the policy coordination meeting held at the National Assembly main building on the same day, "There has been no progress due to the obstinacy of the People Power Party," and added, "The Democratic Party has decided to designate the Semiconductor Special Act as a fast-track bill and push it forward."

Chairman Jin emphasized, "It is utterly unreasonable whether the People Power Party intends to support the semiconductor industry or to enforce the outdated management policies of a particular company president," and stated, "Even if the People Power Party insists stubbornly, the bill will be processed without delay once the statutory review period of 180 days by the Industry, Trade, Small and Medium Enterprises Committee passes."

Jinseongjun, the Policy Committee Chairman of the Democratic Party of Korea, is speaking at the floor strategy meeting held at the National Assembly on the 25th. 2025.2.25 Photo by Kim Hyunmin

According to the current National Assembly Act, fast-track designated bills must be reviewed by the standing committee within 180 days, and then referred to the Legislation and Judiciary Committee for systematic and detailed review within 90 days before being submitted to the plenary session.

Considering the maximum 60-day deliberation period after submission to the plenary session, it can take up to 330 days until the plenary session.

Meanwhile, Chairman Jin expressed regret regarding the fact that Speaker Woo Won-shik will not submit the amendment to the Commercial Act to the plenary session, saying, "It is very regrettable as it sides with the obstinacy of the People Power Party."