Rival parties were close to an agreement Thursday to convene the first session of the 19th National Assembly early next week, after weeks of squabbling over the formation of the standing committees.

The new parliament was originally set to open June 5.

The ruling Saenuri Party and the opposition Democratic United Party also agreed to open a parliamentary investigation in the contentious government surveillance of civilians.

Lawmakers of both parties are to decide on the agreement at their respective meetings Friday.

The DUP’s demand for the probe had been the main sticking point in the negotiations. They also agreed to discuss the ongoing media strike at the relevant standing committee as requested by the Saenuri Party.

The Assembly could open its first session Monday, during which the speaker and vice-speakers will be elected.

The month-long impasse invited mounting criticism as the deadline neared for the Assembly to hold confirmation hearings on Supreme Court justice nominees by July 4.

By Lee Joo-hee (jhl@heraldcorp.com)