South Korea’s Acting Leader Vows to Veto Controversial Bills between Political Crises

South Korea’s acting leader, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, announced on Thursday that he would veto a series of contentious bills introduced by the opposition, escalating political tensions following the National Assembly’s impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. The opposition-controlled National Assembly suspended Yoon’s presidential powers last Saturday over his brief martial law declaration on December 3, and the Constitutional Court is set to determine whether to formally remove him from office. Law enforcement is also investigating the martial law enforcement as potential rebellion, with several high-ranking officials, including Yoon’s defense minister and police chief, arrested.

Han’s veto covers six bills, including the highly debated Grain Management Act, which mandates government intervention to purchase surplus rice if prices fall too sharply, potentially imposing significant financial burdens. Another controversial bill, the National Assembly Testimony Appraisal Act, would expand lawmakers’ powers to summon individuals and access documents, raising concerns over privacy and trade secrets.

The opposition Democratic Party has criticized Han’s decision, warning of potential consequences if he is found to have cooperated with Yoon’s martial law. Han expressed regret over the vetoes but emphasized the need for decisions that uphold the Constitution and the nation’s future.