Democratic Party of Korea to normalize parliament next week: floor leader

The ruling Democratic Party of Korea will soon set up a task force to carry out the election campaign promises made by the party‘s candidates, its floor leader Hong Young-pyo said Thursday. 

“From next week, we are expecting to start negotiations (with opposition parties) to organize the National Assembly and normalize it,” Hong said at a general meeting of the ruling party.

Hong’s remarks came a day after the progressive party won an overwhelming victory at the local elections and parliamentary by-elections on Wednesday.

The party won 11 of the 12 legislative seats in by-elections, confirming its position as the leading political party, whose member also includes President Moon Jae-in.

Hong added that the DPK “will closely work together with opposition parties through communication and agreement as a ruling party.”

“(The result of the elections) indicates that citizens expect us to do more for public welfare and peace (on the Korean Peninsula),” Hong said.

Hong also vowed to launch a task force to “ensure (elected candidates) keep promises they made to the people, while setting up a separate economic task force to monitor the Moon administration’s economic policies,” Hong said.

By Bak Se-hwan (sh@heraldcorp.com)