Seoul – South Korea’s National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik has become a symbol of leadership during the country’s current political turmoil, which began with President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of martial law on December 3.
Despite being the second-highest office in South Korea, the role of the assembly speaker has traditionally been low-profile, working behind the scenes of political life.
Unlike the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, who guides the legislative agenda as the leader of the majority party, South Korea’s parliamentary speaker must renounce party affiliation and retire after their term to maintain neutrality.
However, Woo’s actions during the recent crisis have changed the traditional perception of the speaker and their role.
“Seeing someone like him step up and act decisively in such a critical moment was refreshing,” said Yoo Junghoon, a lawyer and political columnist.
South Korean youth even nicknamed Woo “National Assembly Thor” due to his decisive actions.
A Gallup Korea poll showed that 56 percent of respondents trust Woo, a significant figure in a country where trust in the National Assembly is low.
Student protester to ‘Thor’ of constitutional procedure
As a young student activist, Woo was imprisoned for three years for protesting against the military dictatorship in 1980 after the assassination of President Park Chung-hee in 1979.
After President Yoon declared martial law on December 3, Woo scaled the National Assembly fence to enter the chamber and hold a vote to lift martial law.
Despite pressure to expedite the process, Woo emphasized following correct legislative procedures, ensuring a peaceful and lawful resolution.
‘South Korea is strong. Its people are resilient’
During the failed impeachment vote against President Yoon, Woo encouraged politicians to fulfil their duty to cast a vote, leading to a successful second impeachment vote a week later.
After the vote, Woo called for a return to normalcy and unity among South Koreans.
Woo acknowledged his newfound popularity but attributed it to the collective efforts of lawmakers, staff, and citizens.
Woo emphasized the need for constitutional reform and dismissed the idea of a presidential bid, focusing on addressing the instability that has affected South Korea’s presidencies.
He reassured the world that South Korea is strong and resilient despite recent events.
