A maximum penalty of three years in prison or a fine of five times the amount they accept in money or valuables can also be applied if they exceed 1 million won in one lump sum or 3 million won in total annually, regardless of whether it is in exchange for favors or related to their work. In addition people in these fields are barred from making improper solicitation for favors.

The Constitutional Court ruled the law that goes into effect on Sept. 28 is valid last week, paving the way for it to be implemented.

The ruling Saenuri Party, however, said the law should exclude agricultural and fishery goods, as the price ceilings could bring negative impacts on the country's provincial economy.

The main opposition Minjoo Party of Korea expressed concerns that the price limit should be revised up to 50,000 won and 100,000 won for meals and gifts, respectively, adding the presidential office should also lend support to revision.

Smaller parties, however, claim that the law should be first implemented as stipulated, adding a revision can be made in the future.

Political pundits, meanwhile, said there are growing calls for the anti-graft law to be applied to a wider scope of people, such as lawyers and workers at civil advocacy groups, who can exercise considerable control over various aspects of society. (Yonhap)