The Role of the National Assembly in Controlling Corruption : the Case of Korea

For quiet some time, politicians and scholars have contended their own prescription to cure the widespread corruption phenomena. Yet, it seems that their systems do not work because of the superficial measures against the corruption phenomena. The approach taken by the National Assembly to eliminate corruption exemplifies such superficial measures. The important role and responsibility of lawmakers cannot be emphasized enough since they are in the position to operate the engine for anti-corruption. This paper discusses the role of the National Assembly in Korea, with a special focus on the effective mechanism to eliminate corruption. In this paper, the author considers the legislation of the integrated anti-corruption law with the lawmakers and their role. In addition, it is argued that the anti-corruption law should be independent from the political influence of external forces. In conclusion, this paper suggests the proper role of National Assembly of Korea in controlling corruption, with special emphasis on the improving functions of the National Assembly and the political culture.