[fn Editorial] The National Assembly Must Cease Political Strife and Listen to the Voices of Businesses

The Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has called on the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea to address 30 legislative tasks during this regular session, including support for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Data Centers and the creation of RE100 (Renewable Energy 100%) industrial parks. Notably, 14 of these, such as the Semiconductor Industry Support Act and the Venture Investment Promotion Act, have been proposed by both ruling and opposition parties in the 22nd National Assembly and are areas of shared interest, leaving no reason for delay.
The tasks highlighted by KCCI are all urgent. There are nine pending semiconductor support bills, including the establishment of a Presidential Commission on Semiconductors, rapid infrastructure development, and exemptions from the 52-hour Maximum Workweek Regulation for research and development professionals. Regarding AI, there are also bills for expanding tax incentives for AI Data Centers, providing support for electricity and water, and fostering AI talent.
Bills related to semiconductors and AI must be passed without delay, as global competition is fierce. If a bill requires further discussion due to differing opinions, that is understandable. Otherwise, there is no justification for the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea to hold them back any longer.
As usual, this regular session is marked by intense clashes between the ruling and opposition parties. While constructive criticism and debate are necessary for the development of the nation and democracy, the relentless hostility between parties is exhausting. In the past, the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea was derided as a 'zoo' or 'vegetative' parliament, and things have not improved—if anything, they have worsened.
Amid such extreme confrontation, it is impossible to focus on what truly needs to be done. Even bills that have already reached broad consensus should at least be finalized and passed, yet lawmakers seem unwilling to even sit down together. While they claim to care about the economy and people's livelihoods, they remain indifferent to urgent legislation, leaving businesses deeply frustrated.
It is not the first time the business community has submitted proposals or requests regarding legislation or regulatory reform to the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea. No matter how loudly they voice their concerns, lawmakers seem indifferent, turning a deaf ear. They are fixated solely on attacking the opposing party for their own interests and ideologies.
Even if there are times for political battles, essential tasks must still be addressed. Once the Parliamentary Inspection of the Administration concludes, both parties should carefully review the business community’s proposals and prioritize urgent matters. Currently, companies are struggling for the nation and its people amid adverse external conditions, such as tariff hikes by the United States (U.S.). It is only natural for politics and government to roll up their sleeves to support businesses. If they cannot help, at the very least, they should not become obstacles.
Nearly a year has passed since the events of martial law and impeachment, yet national affairs remain unstable and chaotic. This does not inspire confidence among foreign investors. Public fatigue is also mounting. Investigations and trials should be left to the special prosecutor and the judiciary, while the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea must focus on governance and the nation's future.
The only reason our economy has managed to endure is because businesses have worked tirelessly to sell even one more product abroad. Despite U.S. tariff barriers, exports have remained strong thanks to companies’ efforts in quality innovation and developing alternative markets. When businesses face difficulties, it is the duty of politicians to proactively resolve them. Failing to do so is a dereliction of duty, and lawmakers should return their salaries. For the sake of businesses, the economy, the people, and the nation, the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea must come to its senses.