National Assembly speaker casts ballot on 1st day of early voting

National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo cast his ballot on the first day of early voting Friday, calling on people to turn out at the polls. Speaking to reporters after voting at a polling station near the National Assembly, Kim appealed for more people to vote, saying active participation in the general elections strengthens democracy and helps guide the parliament in a better direction. "No matter how disappointing politics may be, scolding and passing judgment on bad politicians by participating in the elections is the way for the country and for the people," he said. South Korea's democracy could progress further and take root if the final turnout reaches around 80 to 90 percent, like countries in Europe, he added. Kim also called on incumbent members of the parliament to prioritize legislative duties until the current session ends on May 29, saying the National Assembly was unable to do its job over its four-year term. "The ruling and opposition parties should work together and process all necessary bills ... so that people can say that the golden days of the 21st session of the National Assembly was from April 10 to May 29," he said. Source: Yonhap News Agency