105 Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) lawmakers officially launched a parliamentary group on February 23 dedicated to seeking dismissal of the indictment against party leader Lee Jae-myung and advancing a special counsel investigation.
Group Demonstration in National Assembly
The initiative, known as the Prosecution Dismissal Committee, drew 105 participants, including 60 current members. Lawmakers gathered in the National Assembly corridor for a demonstration, waving picket signs that read: “Direct Push for Prosecution Dismissal Committee and Special Counsel Investigation” and “Political Prosecution OUT, Fabricated Charges OUT.”
DPK Spokesman References Lula da Silva’s Comeback
DPK floor spokesman Park Sung-jun invoked the example of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who endured 580 days in prison due to political prosecution and federal court decisions yet returned to office through public mandate. “This demonstrates that in a robust democracy, aligning with fair public opinion elevates constitutional democratic values,” Park stated.
Park added that Lee Jae-myung’s role in the public office election committee chair position does not constitute a personal special privilege. “Clinging to self-justifying mechanisms distorts corporate governance and must cease,” he emphasized.
PPP Lawmakers Condemn Self-Serving Tactics
People Power Party (PPP) policy chief Kim Sung-won sharply criticized the effort, stating, “Evasion of fair audits via government advisor appointments for self-rescue schemes ranks as the most repugnant action. Citizens see through it, and unified condemnation is essential.”
The DPK has rejected the public office election committee proposal.
PPP Spokesman Warns of Electoral Risks
At a party supreme council meeting, PPP spokesman Jang Dong-hyuk warned, “Dismissing the majority view of party members guarantees defeat.” He clarified that legislation provides only legitimate grounds for public roles, not special exemptions. “Reinstating repealed special powers demands re-legislation, and the public watches intently,” Jang noted.
