President Lee Jae-myung told outgoing National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik, who steps down a day later, "As reflected in your long-held belief that politics is the strongest weapon for the powerless, I trust that you will continue to lead the way toward true democracy."
Lee made the remarks Tuesday on his X account, saying, "Speaker Woo has completed his duties as Speaker of the first half of the 22nd National Assembly."
"Looking back, the past two years marked a critical turning point in our constitutional history, and the Speaker shouldered heavy responsibilities at the heart of history's fierce whirlwind," Lee said. "In particular, the bold and resolute leadership the Speaker demonstrated amid the grave democratic crisis of the December 3 insurrection served as a pillar that protected our constitutional order from collapse."
Lee continued, "In the face of that crisis, we reaffirmed the power of democracy and were able to transform 'democracy's worst crisis' into 'democracy's most shining moment.'" He emphasized, "The responsible role of the National Assembly and the Speaker's dedication were a great force behind the stable launch of the Sovereign People's Government and the swift normalization of state affairs."
"Even amid a political reality of sharp conflict and confrontation, the Speaker has never let go of the values of dialogue, mediation and compromise," Lee said. "Above all, the Speaker's path of constantly contemplating the role of politics with the people's lives as the top priority will remain a model for our political circles, transcending ruling and opposition lines." He added, "I express my deep gratitude for your dedication and hard work. You have truly worked hard all this while."
At a farewell press conference held at the National Assembly the same day, Speaker Woo said, "It is truly regrettable that constitutional revision was not achieved." He added, "I expect that the second half of the National Assembly will surely form a special committee on constitutional revision and bear fruit."
