The Return of Na Kyung-won's Bold Claim: "We Must Introduce Registered Cohabitation"

"Lower the Marriage Hurdles"
"Children Must Receive Non-Discriminatory Protection"

Former lawmaker Na Kyung-won, who had her ambitions thwarted by incidents such as the 'Yeonpanjang incident' when she aimed to run in the ruling party's presidential election last March, has made a spectacular return to central politics by founding the Population and Climate Forum. Upon her return, she raised her voice advocating for the progressive introduction of the French-style cohabitation system known as 'registered cohabitation.'

On the 25th, Na said on KBS's "Choi Kyung-young's Strongest Current Affairs," "In fact, I think we should also introduce this registered cohabitation," adding, "It is somewhat necessary to lower the hurdles for marriage."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The registered cohabitation system mentioned by Na is a system introduced in France since the 1960s, where cohabitation is registered to receive benefits equivalent to legal marriage. Na stated, "Population issues are not unique to us; some advanced countries also face them," adding, "One of the ways France has addressed these population issues is by introducing a new registered cohabitation system and other institutional measures."

However, in South Korea, public opinion remains largely negative toward the registered cohabitation system. Nevertheless, Na holds the position that legalizing cohabitation is necessary when considering the children to be born. She said, "From the child's perspective, shouldn't we provide protection without discrimination?" She continued, "Opponents say, 'There is already case law that provides the same protection for de facto marriages, so why do we need registered cohabitation?' But de facto marriages are recognized by case law as equivalent to marriage, so alimony must be paid, and the same hurdles of marriage apply."

She further stated, "I don't think this is the complete solution to (low birth rates), but the trend of late marriages or first marriages being delayed partly stems from the high hurdles of marriage," adding, "Many people make marriage seem too difficult."

She emphasized the need for progressive judgment considering social changes. Na said, "From the child's perspective, not providing protection means neglecting our responsibilities. Recently, issues like abandoned children have become significant," adding, "Therefore, if we make progressive decisions centered on children, I think we can open up various possibilities."

On the 24th, Na Kyung-won held the founding forum of the "Population, Climate, and Tomorrow" at the National Assembly Library. This organization is a corporation under the jurisdiction of the National Assembly Secretariat, aiming to conduct research and seek policy alternatives in various fields focusing on population, climate, energy, immigration, and diplomatic security policies for the peace and sustainable growth of the Republic of Korea.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.