Record filibuster boosts Jang’s standing

Dec 24, 2025, 08:34 am

		0
Jang Dong-hyuk, leader of the People Power Party (center), greets fellow lawmakers after completing an unlimited debate on a revised bill for the “Special Act on establishing a dedicated trial panel for the Dec. 3 Yoon Suk Yeol emergency martial law and whistleblower protection” during a plenary session at the National Assembly on Dec. 23. Jang became the first leader of the main opposition party to launch a filibuster, setting both the first-ever and longest records. / Photo by Lee Byeong-hwa

Jang Dong-hyuk, leader of the main opposition People Power Party, set a new benchmark by launching the first-ever filibuster by an opposition leader and breaking the longest-duration record, as he sought to block a ruling party bill establishing a special tribunal for alleged insurrection cases.

Jang spoke continuously for 24 hours—from 11:40 a.m. on Dec. 22 to 11:40 a.m. on Dec. 23—surpassing the previous record of 17 hours and 12 minutes. Standing through the night with only water, his eyes visibly bloodshot, Jang pressed on until stepping down without a closing statement. Lawmakers from his party rose in applause as he exited the chamber, exchanging handshakes along the way.

Throughout the marathon debate, Jang argued that the proposed law to create a dedicated insurrection trial panel violates constitutional principles. He urged President Lee Jae-myung to exercise the veto, insisting that safeguarding constitutional order requires rejecting the bill even if cabinet members do not formally recommend doing so.

Jang also contended that the ruling party’s push to pass the legislation reflects concern that its “insurrection frame” could fail to gain traction. By placing himself at the forefront of the parliamentary fight, analysts say, Jang signaled firm resolve and helped consolidate party unity, prompting a reassessment of his leadership.

The impact extended beyond the chamber. Overnight between Dec. 22 and 23, the People Power Party’s official YouTube channel surpassed 500,000 subscribers, with more than 10,000 viewers tuning inchang live despite the late hour. Within the party, praise poured in, with supporters lauding Jang for “fighting against the odds” and pledging “total renewal” in the face of adversity.

#Jang Dong-hyuk #People Power Party #filibuster #National Assembly