South Korean Parliament Passes Budget Bypassing the Government Bill

South Korea's opposition-controlled parliament passed the 2025 government budget bill on Tuesday, Dec 10, cutting it from the government’s proposed figure. The 673.3 trillion won (US$470 billion) budget approved by parliament is a reduction from the 677.4 trillion won initially proposed by the government, marking the first time a budget has been passed without an agreement between rival parties or government ministries. The vote passed with 183-94 in the 300-member parliament.

The budget process has been contentious, with the opposition Democratic Party using its parliamentary majority to push the bill through despite objections from the ruling People Power Party and the government. Democratic Party Leader Lee Jae-myung emphasized the urgency of passing the bill, stating, "A swift passage of the Bill will help resolve the current unease and crisis."

The government criticized the budget cuts, arguing they would paralyze basic government functions, delay critical policy measures, and weaken support for small businesses and vulnerable citizens. Lawmakers also noted that while parliament cannot increase spending without finance ministry approval, adjustments through an extra budget could be made if necessary.

This budget battle comes in the wake of President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law decree on Dec 3, which escalated political tensions and triggered a constitutional crisis. Yoon justified the decree by citing opposition obstructionism over government spending proposals. Opposition lawmaker Park Chan-dae dismissed these claims, stating that any urgent needs could be addressed later through additional budget measures. The dispute underscores ongoing political divisions in South Korea, which could have significant implications for governance and economic stability in Asia's fourth-largest economy.