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Lawmakers introduce resolution condemning current violence in Iran, citing Korea's own history

Published: 16 Jan. 2026, 17:32 Updated: 16 Jan. 2026, 20:07

LEE SOO-JUNG
[email protected]

An Iranian woman holds a portrait of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during the funerals of security forces personnel killed in recent protests in Tehran on Jan. 14, 2026. [AFP/YONHAP]

A bipartisan group of Korean lawmakers on Friday introduced a resolution urging the Iranian government to halt military suppression and killings against civilians.

The resolution, endorsed by 77 lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Party (DP), the opposition People Power Party and other minor parties, marks the first condemnatory message against the Iranian authority from the Korean state institutions.

The resolution criticized Iranian state forces for using violence against unarmed civilians calling for freedom, rights to survival and political reform, likening it to an “inhumane action that cannot be justified by any reason.”

The lawmakers agreed that Korea bears historic and moral responsibility as a democratized country that once experienced the brutality of state-inflicted violence during the May 18 democratic movement in 1980.

The resolution also stated that the Korean parliament would coordinate with the international community to support Iranians autonomously determining their future with freedom of expression and through democratic procedures.

The main building of the National Assembly in western Seoul is seen in an undated file photo [JOONGANG ILBO]

In addition, the resolution called on the Korean government to protect Korean nationals in Iran. It was reported that around 90 Korean nationals are currently in Iran.

“The National Assembly strongly demands our government mobilize all diplomatic and administrative measures to safely protect endangered Koreans in Iran and help them leave the country,” the resolution reads.

DP Rep. Lee Un-ju, the representing lawmaker, said it is regretful to see such a tragedy happening in Iran, a country that has maintained friendly relations with Korea for a long time — mentioning Tehran Street in southern Seoul, a staple of the countries' bilateral ties.

“I hope this resolution would ignite a spark of hope among Iranians suffered by economic hardship and suppression of freedom and democracy,” Lee said.

Update, Jan. 16: Rep. Lee Un-ju's office corrected the number of participating lawmakers.

BY LEE SOO-JUNG [[email protected]]