Martial Law Act Amendment Banning Military and Police Entry to National Assembly Passes Subcommittee

On April 23, the National Assembly Defense Committee's Legislation Review Subcommittee passed a revision to the Martial Law Act that prohibits the military, police, and other personnel from entering the National Assembly during the implementation of martial law.

Democratic Party lawmaker Byungjoo Kim is seen calling Committee Chairman Iljong Sung on the 3rd at the National Assembly Defense Committee meeting room to request the convening of a meeting. The ruling party, including Chairman Sung, abruptly canceled the scheduled full Defense Committee meeting, demanding an apology for Kim's remarks made during the government questioning session held the previous day. Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@

The amendment stipulates that, during martial law, military personnel, police officers, and others under the command and supervision of the Martial Law Commander are not allowed to enter the premises of the National Assembly. However, exceptions are allowed if the Speaker of the National Assembly requests or permits entry, or if it is deemed necessary to guarantee the exercise of the National Assembly's authority. The amendment also states that anyone who violates this provision and enters the National Assembly premises will be subject to imprisonment or detention for up to three years, or a fine of up to 10 million won.

A new clause has also been added stating that "no one shall obstruct members of the National Assembly from entering the National Assembly or holding meetings after the proclamation of martial law." Those who obstruct lawmakers' entry will be subject to imprisonment or detention for up to five years.