[Insight & Opinion] In Anticipation of Politics of Trust and Balance

A Clear Majority-Minority Political Landscape
The Ruling Party Is More Than a Support Group
Must Fulfill Its Role of Autonomous Oversight and Self-Reflection

The administration under President Lee Jaemyung, which was inaugurated in June, is gradually revealing the contours of its governance. In a democracy, it is a fundamental principle that a leader chosen by the majority of the people, in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Constitution, assumes responsibility for state affairs. Every administration, especially in its early days, is expected to introduce a variety of policies, propelled by strong momentum and public expectations. However, the evaluation of governance cannot be based solely on 'speed' or 'decisiveness.' It is also essential to examine how power is exercised behind this momentum and to what extent the principles of 'checks and balances' are respected.

The current political landscape is clearly characterized by a 'ruling party majority and opposition minority.' The ruling party holds an overwhelming majority in the National Assembly, and its influence is deeply rooted not only in the legislature but also across local governments and the executive branch. While this configuration may provide favorable conditions for advancing policies, it also brings structural concerns that the core democratic principles of 'separation of powers' and 'checks and balances' could be weakened.

In particular, the current atmosphere in which the ruling party offers uncritical support for the president's statements and policies cannot be considered a healthy political environment. With the opposition divided and unable to effectively fulfill its role of oversight, if the ruling party also refrains from constructive criticism or remains silent, state affairs could dangerously veer toward unchecked unilateralism. Political alignment is sometimes necessary, but if it comes at the expense of autonomy and self-reflection, it ultimately leads to the entrenchment of power within the ruling group.

Moreover, several recent signs in the relationship with the judiciary are cause for concern. Open expressions of dissatisfaction with specific court rulings and remarks that frame prosecutorial investigations in political terms are actions that could threaten the independence of the judiciary. The judiciary is, according to the Constitution, an independent branch of power, and the essence of the rule of law lies in its political neutrality. No one, not even the president, should be exempt from the application of the law. If this principle collapses, citizens will no longer be able to trust the institutions of the state.

At this point, we must also consider the generational differences in perspective. There was a time when the older generation failed to understand the progressive values and sensitivities of the youth. Back then, young people led social change by resisting authoritarian order, and although their movement was often marginalized and suppressed, it ultimately became a force for transforming the times. Now, paradoxically, as the progressive camp has become mainstream, some in the younger generation are displaying conservative tendencies, prompting the progressive camp to view this as 'regression' with concern.

However, their movement is also another current of the times?a natural reaction that arises when the once-progressive forces become entrenched in power. If we remember the alienation and oppression once experienced by the progressive camp, we should recognize that today’s youth are also raising their voices from within similar sentiments. People are rarely willing to let go of what they hold. Yet, circulation is an essential movement that brings balance to the flow of history.

Every ruling group in the past has promised to resolve social conflicts and achieve national unity. Now, that promise must be evaluated by how it is realized throughout the administration of state affairs. Unity is not achieved through rhetorical flourishes or token appointments, but must be demonstrated in the substantive exercise of power. Only when the president exemplifies genuine democracy through balanced use of power can the people place their trust in the government.

The newly inaugurated administration must now approach the people and the Constitution with humility, always mindful of the nature of power, attentive to diverse voices, and respectful of laws and institutions, in order to realize politics where checks and balances are alive. The ruling party, too, must fulfill its role not as a mere 'support group,' but as a responsible political actor with internal debate and autonomous oversight functions.

Kim Kyuil, Professor at Michigan State University