South Korea Passes 'Judicial Distortion' Law After Ending Filibuster

South Korea's National Assembly passed a controversial bill on Thursday that allows criminal prosecution of judges and prosecutors who intentionally misapply laws in criminal cases.

The ruling Democratic Party and its allies forced an end to a filibuster by the opposition People Power Party before proceeding to a vote. The bill passed with 163 in favor out of 170 members present.

The legislation aims to prevent abuse of power by judges and prosecutors. Critics have warned the law could undermine judicial independence and threaten the separation of powers.

A companion bill expanding the scope of espionage charges also passed. The revision extends espionage laws to cover acts committed for "foreign countries or equivalent organizations," broadening the previous definition limited to "enemy states." Those convicted of espionage face the death penalty, life imprisonment, or a minimum of seven years in prison.

The Assembly next plans to introduce a bill on constitutional appeals, the second of the Democratic Party's three judicial reform bills. The People Power Party has filed another filibuster request. The ruling bloc plans to force an end to debate after 24 hours and attempt to pass the bill Friday afternoon.