In Seoul
CURRENTLY the Korean parliament looks like a scene from a gangster movie.
While the trade committee tries to submit the Bill to ratify the Free Trade Agreement with the United States, opposition lawmakers used a sledge-hammer and electric saw to break down the door to thwart the plan which was in session.
All hell broke loose.
Security personnel sprayed the protestors with fire extinguishing foam to try to disperse them. Blood was streaking down the supposed representatives of the people involved in a melee fit for a Mike Tyson brawl.
Tables were smashed with hammers. Cups were shattered on the ground. Vicious blows were thrown at the faces.
Under pressure from President Lee Myung Bak, the ruling Grand National Party wants to ratify the FTA to put pressure on the US Congress to do likewise.
All the opposition parties opposed the move for various reasons. One reason is that the incoming US President Barack Obama wants re-negotiation to allow more exports of US cars - the industry is currently in dire straits - to South Korea. Ratifying the treaty will lead to bilateral disputes.
Another source of opposition comes from the lawmakers representing the protectionist agricultural lobby which wants to protect their turf from cheaper imports.
The ruling party is asking for dialogue but the opposition are in no mood for any compromise. Looks like more blood-letting is on the cards.