Emphasizing Strong Action at Budget Committee and Confirmation Hearings
Boycott Remains a Possibility for the Future
The People Power Party, which had previously declared a boycott of the National Assembly schedule, has decided to attend the opening ceremony of the regular session scheduled for September 1.
On August 29, Song Eonseok, floor leader of the People Power Party, stated in his closing remarks at a workshop held at the Korea Airports Corporation Aviation Training Center, "Some lawmakers suggested not attending the opening ceremony, but more opinions were in favor of attending."
Song also said, "National Assembly Speaker Woo Wonshik proposed that we wear hanbok, but I expressed that it would be difficult for us to agree to this," adding, "Assuming we attend, I will announce over the weekend what attire and actions are appropriate for the situation."
The party also plans to participate in the ongoing Special Committee on Budget and Accounts and the upcoming confirmation hearings. Next week, the National Assembly is scheduled to hold confirmation hearings for Lee Eokwon, nominee for Chairman of the Financial Services Commission; Choi Gyojin, nominee for Minister of Education; and Joo Byeonggi, nominee for Chairman of the Fair Trade Commission. Song urged lawmakers, "The Special Committee on Budget and Accounts will resume next week, so please fight strongly, focusing on the committee members," and emphasized, "At the confirmation hearings, please point out every issue with each nominee."
However, the possibility of boycotting the National Assembly schedule remains open. Jang Donghyeok, leader of the People Power Party, said, "It is difficult to predict what may happen in the future," and added, "Whether we boycott the regular session or take other actions, we will respond in the most effective way as circumstances arise."
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