Questions on Availability of Security Law Deserve Great Caution

In regard to a recent controversial claim for the abolition of the national security law, Justice Minister Kim Seung-kyu said yesterday, “As long as what menaces and violates the nation’s freedom is in place, we have to pay respect to the security law and consolidate criminal law,” adding, “Under such circumstances, we have to decide this matter with great caution.”

At the parliament’s judiciary committee meeting, to the questions of Rep. Yang Seung-jo of the ruling Uri Party, who asked, “What do you think of the recent advice of the National Human Rights Commission of Korea in favor of abrogating the security law?” Minister Kim responded, “There are various opinions according to academia, the press, political parties, and even individuals, respectively. I hope the National Assembly makes a rational decision after considering these opinions.”

In addition, when Rep. Chang Yun-suk of the opposition Grand National Party asked Kim the same question, he responded, “It is indispensable to obtain a national consensus. The first step should be taken at the National Assembly level, and deep circumspection is needed.”

Myoung-Gun Lee gun43@donga.com