Moon Hee-sang (Korean: 문희상; Hanja: 文喜相; born 3 March 1945) is a South Korean public figure known for his long-standing involvement in national politics. He has served in the legislature and held senior party responsibilities. His career includes a term as interim leader of the New Politics Alliance for Democracy and election as Speaker of the National Assembly on 13 July 2018.
Beginning as a national legislator, Moon's work has been associated with parliamentary leadership and party organization. He participated in major legislative debates and internal party management during periods of political transition. His appointment as interim leader of the New Politics Alliance for Democracy from 2014 to 2015 placed him at the center of efforts to unify and reorganize liberal political forces in South Korea.
Key roles and offices
- Member of the National Assembly — representing constituencies in the national legislature and participating in lawmaking and oversight.
- Interim leader of the New Politics Alliance for Democracy (2014–2015) — guiding party affairs during a transitional period.
- Speaker of the National Assembly — elected 13 July 2018 to preside over parliamentary sessions and administrative functions of the Assembly.
The role of Speaker carries responsibilities such as conducting plenary sessions, ensuring legislative procedures are followed, and representing the legislature in official capacities. As Speaker, Moon was expected to balance partisan interests while protecting the institutional integrity of the Assembly and facilitating debate on national policy.
Over his career, Moon has been viewed as a seasoned parliamentarian with experience in both party leadership and procedural stewardship. Observers note that figures in his position often play a moderating role: mediating between parties, guiding legislative agendas, and engaging with executive authorities on constitutional matters. His tenure as interim party leader and later as Speaker underlines his prominence within the public institutions of South Korea.
Notable facts: his Korean name and Hanja form are commonly cited in official profiles (Korean, Hanja), he led the NPAD during a critical reorganization phase (New Politics Alliance for Democracy), and his parliamentary roles reflect the importance of legislative leadership in South Korea's democratic system (National Assembly, Speaker election).