Both Sides Urge Quick Korea Action : Roh Meets Opposition Leader; 28 Political Prisoners Released

Leaders of the governing and opposition parties declared jointly today that work on democratic reform must begin at once, and the government freed at least 28 political prisoners.

Officials said hundreds more will go free in coming days to meet President Chun Doo Hwan’s pledge. Chun announced Wednesday that he accepted opposition demands, including direct presidential elections and the release of political prisoners.

Roh Tae Woo, head of the ruling Democratic Justice Party, made a surprise call today at the headquarters of the main opposition Reunification Democratic Party to meet with party leader Kim Young Sam.

Astonishing Gesture

The gesture by Roh, who is Chun’s personal choice to succeed him in February, was astonishing in light of the traditional bitter hostility in South Korea between government and opposition parties.

“I’ve already opened my heart,” Roh said after the meeting. “What happens today is the will and victory of the people. Politicians should conduct dialogue on all matters of concern in a frank manner.”

Kim said: “Negotiations must begin soon on the political timetable and an amendment to the constitution.”

Chun had declared on April 13 that all discussion of democratic reform would be postponed until after the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul.

Gave In to Protests

He capitulated after weeks of street protest that attracted an unusual degree of support and participation from businessmen, housewives, shop workers and others who normally avoid political turmoil.

Roh stunned the nation by demanding Monday that the president give in, threatening to quit all his posts and the candidacy otherwise.

Officials of both sides said today they want talks on reforms to begin by mid-July so the National Assembly can consider the results by August. Spokesmen for the governing party said privately they might have draft proposals ready by Friday.

November Election Urged

Opposition spokesman Kim Tae Ryong said a direct presidential election should be held no later than November. The governing party also said it wants a quick election.

In his April declaration, Chun had said his successor would be chosen by the current electoral college system, which the opposition claims favors the government.

Kim Dae Jung, the other principal leader of South Korea’s opposition, did not attend today’s meeting with Roh.

Speculation is growing about which of the two Kims, who have been rivals in the past, will be the opposition presidential candidate. Kim Young Sam declined to answer questions on the matter today.

Relatives and supporters shouted “Welcome!” and “You have done well!” as several students arrested for taking part in the protests were released from prison today. They were among at least 28 people freed.

Justice Ministry officials have said about 1,100 people will be freed and only prisoners serving terms for treason, arson, murder or other major offenses will be excluded from the amnesty.