A People Power Party lawmaker told Democratic Party members to get back to work after they were filmed taking photos in the National Assembly plenary hall [1].
The incident highlights the growing friction between South Korea's major political parties as they navigate the overlap between legislative duties and local election campaigning.
The confrontation occurred on April 29, 2026 [1]. Video footage showed Democratic Party lawmakers preoccupied with taking commemorative photographs with fellow local-election candidates, including Kim Sang-wook, a candidate for Ulsan mayor [1].
While the lawmakers focused on the photo session, an unnamed lawmaker from the People Power Party interrupted the activity. The lawmaker said, "Let's work, let's work" [1].
The exchange took place within the plenary hall in Seoul, the primary site for legislative debate, and voting [1]. The People Power Party member said the Democratic Party members neglected their official legislative responsibilities in favor of campaign-related activities [1].
Democratic Party members frequently utilize the National Assembly's facilities to maintain visibility and build alliances during election cycles. However, the use of the plenary hall for non-legislative activities often draws scrutiny from opposition members who argue that the venue should be reserved for government business [1].
“"Let's work, let's work"”
This interaction reflects the inherent tension in the South Korean political system when national legislators transition into campaign mode for local elections. The use of the plenary hall for photo opportunities serves as a symbolic flashpoint, where the opposition can frame the ruling or majority party as prioritizing political optics over governance.
