Kim Byung-ki, the floor leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, stated on the 2nd the need for a special tribunal for insurrection cases and expressed that the crime of breach of duty should be abolished. This marks the first time the party’s leadership has formally pushed for the establishment of such a tribunal.
During a regular parliamentary meeting, Kim mentioned concerns over the potential for judicial independence to be compromised with the establishment of a special tribunal for insurrection cases. He stated, “I personally believe it is necessary.” A special tribunal refers to a court tasked with handling specific cases separate from the current judiciary system.
Kim highlighted concerns over recent judicial actions, such as those by Judge Ji Gui-yeon, who was involved in cases related to former President Yoon Suk-yeol, and expressed anxiety over the possibility of mishandling insurrection trials.
Regarding the abolition of the breach of duty crime, Kim argued for legal amendments, stating that punishing management decisions does not align with global trends. However, he acknowledged differing opinions, saying, “Some believe abolition is excessive and suggest amendments under the principle of management judgment,” but vowed not to pursue the changes step-by-step and to resolve the issue decisively.
A task force being launched is expected to suggest directions for reforming laws and systems, including economic penalties and civil responsibilities related to the breach of duty.
In terms of other legislative discussions, Kim stated opposition to allowing exchanges to issue financial products, emphasizing the risks associated.
The slogan for the current regular parliamentary session is “Recovery, Reform, and Growth,” with three main goals: ending insurrection and restoring democracy, societal reform through legislative initiatives, and sustainable economic growth.
Kim also addressed issues like prosecutorial reform, stating that all reforms should focus on societal recovery. He dismissed the notion that prosecutorial reform is merely a source of conflict and stressed the importance of thorough debates to reach consensus.
On the contentious issue of the location for the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency, Kim indicated that there may be differing opinions about it being under the Ministry of Interior and Safety and emphasized the need for broad consultation and political judgment.
Regarding amendments to the Press Arbitration Act, he expressed the need to address fake information but cautioned against using the term “media reform.”