South Korea's People Power Party opposes prosecution reform and defends US trip spending

The opposition People Power Party (PPP) called on President Lee Jae Myung to veto a recently passed amendment to the Criminal Procedure Act that would strip the prosecution of its direct investigative powers. PPP leader Jang Dong‑hyeok warned the change would benefit criminals and undermine the rule of law, noting that the bill passed a plenary vote of 175‑2 despite public and expert opposition.

Separately, the PPP defended the cost of Jang Dong‑hyeok’s ten‑day visit to the United States in April, stating the final expense of about 206 million won (US$144,000) was lower than previous party leaders’ trips. The party highlighted budget details and claimed Jang covered additional costs personally, responding to criticism that the trip yielded little diplomatic benefit ahead of local elections.