Seoul: The leader of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) emphasized that the ongoing special counsel investigation into the failed martial law attempt by ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol should not be viewed as "political retribution." Instead, he called for strict punishment for those accountable.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Rep. Jung Chung-rae made this statement during his inaugural policy address at the first regular National Assembly session since President Lee Jae Myung assumed office in June. Yoon is currently on trial for allegedly leading an insurrection through his martial law attempt in December.

Jung stated, "Settling the issue of insurrection is not political retribution. It is time for the ruling and opposition parties, conservatives and progressives alike, to resolve the long-standing task of settling history." He emphasized that a comprehensive investigation into the insurrection and the punishment of those responsible should be the starting point.

In addition, Jung urged the rapid passage of three revision bills to extend special counsel investigations into Yoon's martial law charges, allegations involving his wife, Kim Keon Hee, and a 2023 military investigation into the death of a young Marine. He called on the main opposition People Power Party (PPP), the conservative party Yoon departed from after his impeachment, to issue a public apology and sever ties with pro-martial law forces.

Jung warned that if the PPP fails to disassociate from those implicated in the insurrection allegations, the party could face a constitutional trial potentially leading to its dissolution as an "unconstitutional" party. The DP has accused the PPP of protecting Yoon, highlighting that most of its lawmakers boycotted the vote to terminate his Dec. 3 martial law declaration and later opposed his impeachment.

Furthermore, Jung pledged to advocate for reforms in the prosecution, judiciary, and media through relevant legislation, while supporting the Lee administration's economic agenda to promote growth. The DP has been championing bills to dismantle the prosecution's central headquarters and replace it with new agencies responsible for handling investigative and indictment powers.