Choo Mi-ae: "We Must Correct Wrong Investigation Practices for Prosecution Reform Benefiting the People"... Silent on Investigation-Prosecution Separation

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyung-min] Minister of Justice Choo Mi-ae visited Jeonju and emphasized, "Prioritizing the human rights of the people and correcting wrongful investigative practices will be the foundation for prosecutorial reform for the people." She did not provide any additional comments regarding her remarks on the 'separation of investigation and prosecution within the prosecution,' which differed from Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-yeol and others.

On the morning of the 17th, Minister Choo attended the opening ceremony of the new Jeonju District Prosecutors' Office building and said, "Please actively participate to ensure the success of prosecutorial reform. Prosecutorial reform does not only mean grand changes such as the establishment of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials or legal amendments and organizational restructuring."

She continued, "With the completion of the new building, the Jeonju District Prosecutors' Office should make every effort to provide better legal services and keep in mind that the prosecution is an institution that protects human rights."

She added, "The prosecution was established to protect human rights," and said, "We must keep the original role and function in mind and ensure that human rights are not violated in the exercise of prosecutorial authority."

Minister Choo stated, "The Ministry of Justice is implementing regulations that limit late-night and long-hour interrogations and improve the practices of disclosing suspect information and photo lines," and also revealed, "We are expanding the right to counsel participation to all parties involved in cases and reviewing improvements in the submission and disclosure methods of indictments."

Furthermore, she said, "Recently, a job-seeking person in their 20s took their own life after being deceived by a voice phishing gang impersonating a prosecutor. The prosecution must do its utmost to protect the lives and property of women, youth, and the disabled, as much as political cases," and added, "The Ministry of Justice has strengthened the capabilities of the criminal and trial divisions accordingly and will continue to provide support without hesitation."

Minister Choo said, "Having worked as a judge here (Jeonju District Court) for two years since 1993, I feel a special affection and renewed emotions," and expressed, "With the completion of the new building, I hope you will provide better legal services and make every effort."

Meanwhile, when asked by reporters about Prosecutor General Yoon’s opposition to the separation of investigation and prosecution within the prosecution during his visit to Busan, Minister Choo did not respond.