South Korea's three main political parties have failed to reach a compromise to end a prolonged standstill at the National Assembly,... but agreed on the need for the swift normalization of parliament.
The floor leaders of the ruling Democratic Party, the main opposition Liberty Korea Party and the minor opposition Bareun Mirae Party met over a beer on Monday evening,... in hopes of finding a breakthrough.
They expressed regret over the current situation,... and vowed to continue candid talks to find a solution,... emphasizing their priority was first and foremost boosting people's livelihoods and revitalizing the economy.
Let's listen to their remarks before their meeting.
"I will talk frankly to find a solution to normalize parliament. I will also listen to the opposition so that we can go together to find a good solution."
"It's not something we can solve at once,... but I believe we do need to change the parliamentary culture to communicate with open minds."
"I'm sure all three parties feel the desperateness of the people and hope that talks lead to a positive outcome."
The National Assembly has been out of action for weeks,... with tensions peaking after the ruling party and minor opposition bloc fast-tracked key reform bills despite intense resistance from the main opposition party.
The rival parties are still far apart on many issues,... but they are under pressure to normalize parliament... as they have to yet to deliberate the government's extra budget proposal as well as other pending bills.
The floor leaders said they plan to meet again -- which could be Tuesday or Wednesday at earliest.