Rep. Na Kyung-won and Song Eon-seok Keep Seats, Dealing Double Blow to Democratic Party

Reps. Na Kyung-won, Song Eon-seok Fined

Rep. Na Kyung-won was fined 24 million won on charges of violating the Act on the Aggravated Punishment, etc. of Specific Economic Crimes (breach of trust) in connection with the operation of a private school foundation. The court acknowledged some of Na's actions were guilty but determined there was no intention to pursue personal gain. Rep. Song Eon-seok was fined 11.5 million won on charges of verbally abusing and assaulting a party official. The court ruled that Song's actions were contrary to social norms and caused mental distress to the victim.

Background to Maintaining Assembly Seats: Both Na Kyung-won and Song Eon-seok received fines, but under criminal law, a fine does not constitute grounds for losing their parliamentary seats. Unless it's a violation of the Public Official Election Act or the Political Funds Act, a fine does not result in the loss of a seat.

Controversy Over Rep. Choo Kyung-ho's Arrest Motion

The motion to arrest Rep. Choo Kyung-ho is scheduled to be voted on at the National Assembly plenary session on November 27. Choo is accused of obstructing parliamentary voting during the illegal declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024. The Democratic Party submitted the arrest warrant, arguing that Choo's actions neglected the duties of a lawmaker and undermined constitutional order.

Ruling Party's Response: The People Power Party is deeply concerned internally ahead of the vote on the arrest warrant for Choo Kyung-ho. Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk has emphasized to lawmakers that the arrest motion against Choo is an unjust political repression and that the party's strength must be mobilized to block it.

Background on Martial Law

The People Power Party marks the first anniversary of the illegal declaration of martial law on December 3, 2025. At the time, the martial law declaration was ruled unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court, and investigations into those involved are ongoing. The retention of seats by Na Kyung-won and Song Eon-seok, and the vote on the arrest warrant for Choo Kyung-ho, are escalating political tensions.