South Korea’s National Assembly on August 21 approved one of three disputed broadcasting reform measures designed to curb government control over state broadcasters, Yonhap News Agency reports. The ruling Democratic Party (DP), which holds a majority, passed the bill without support from the main opposition People Power Party (PPP).

During the plenary session, 169 lawmakers voted in favour and one opposed, while PPP members boycotted in protest.

The amendment relates to the Foundation for Broadcast Culture Act, expanding the foundation’s board membership from nine to 13. The foundation is a major shareholder in MBC, one of the country’s largest public broadcasters. The broader legislative package seeks to restructure governance at KBS, MBC and EBS by increasing the number of board directors and involving media and broadcasting associations in their appointment.

The PPP has strongly resisted the reforms, arguing that the measures will simply strengthen progressive influence over the broadcasters rather than promote neutrality. A previous attempt to pass the bill in early August was delayed when the opposition mounted a filibuster, causing the legislation to expire at the end of the extraordinary session.

This week’s vote follows the DP’s earlier approval of an amendment to the Broadcasting Act. The party also introduced another reform concerning the Korea Educational Broadcasting System, though the PPP immediately began a filibuster to block it.

In parallel, the DP intends to advance additional bills, including revisions to the Commercial Act and a so-called “yellow envelope” bill aimed at enhancing protections for workers engaged in industrial action.

Meanwhile, six-term DP legislator Choo Mi-ae has been appointed chair of the legislation and judiciary committee, replacing Lee Choon-suak, who was expelled following controversy over stock dealings.