Negotiations between the ruling and opposition parties in South Korea’s National Assembly have begun with a clear divide over committee leadership roles. Democratic Party leader Han Byung-do urged swift agreement, while People Power Party’s new leader Jeong Jeom-sik called for compromise. The initial meeting on May 11th signaled a potentially contentious start to the 22nd National Assembly. The core dispute centers on the allocation of chairmanships for key parliamentary committees. The Democratic Party, holding a majority, aims to secure more leadership positions, a move resisted by the People Power Party. Both leaders acknowledged the need for dialogue but maintained firm stances, foreshadowing difficult negotiations ahead. The outcome of these talks will significantly impact the legislative agenda and functionality of the new parliament.