Korea's Cabinet on Tuesday approved a package of new bills, including the country's first comprehensive anti-terrorism bill that the government stresses is critical for safeguarding the country from acts of violence spreading across the globe.

The bill approved in the Cabinet meeting, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Yoo Il-ho, provides the National Intelligence Service with access to personal information, including financial transactions of terrorism suspects.

It also includes plans on establishing an entity under the management of the Prime Minister's Office, which will decide on key policies related to counterterrorism.

While a bill of a similar nature was first filed with the National Assembly in November 2001 following the Sept. 11 attacks on the United States, there had been no significant progress until this year.

The delay came amid concern over privacy breaches, such as allowing South Korea's top intelligence agency to collect personal data on anyone suspected of posing a threat to national security.

Critics have argued the law infringes on the public's right for privacy.

In addition to the anti-terrorism law, the Cabinet approved a law that obligates carmakers to report any problems with gas emissions to the Ministry of Environment. The measures are in response to Volkswagen and other auto manufacturers faked emissions tests that hurt consumer confidence.

Meanwhile, the controversial bill that will enable parliament to open hearings more often was not tabled at Tuesday's Cabinet meeting, with government and ruling party insiders suggesting it may be vetoed by President Park after she returns from her trip to Africa and France. (Yonhap)