[Asia Economy Reporter Bae Kyunghwan] Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae expressed "regret" over the sudden resignation of Park Soon-cheol, Chief Prosecutor of the Seoul Southern District Prosecutors' Office. On the 22nd, Chief Park announced his resignation through the internal prosecution network, stating, "Politics has overshadowed the prosecution."
In response, Minister Choo stated, "I regret that at a critical time when the Lime case, which has raised public suspicion, must be investigated strictly and swiftly, the chief prosecutor, who has been entrusted with the responsibility and authority to conduct an independent and thorough investigation free from higher institutions and political influence, has decided to resign."
She continued, "I urge the Southern District Prosecutors' Office investigation team to remain unwavering, focus solely on the people, and dedicate themselves to uncovering the truth," adding, "We plan to carry out follow-up personnel appointments soon to minimize any gaps in the independent investigation command system."
Meanwhile, Chief Park submitted his sudden resignation on the same day as former Star Mobility Chairman Kim Bong-hyun, a key figure in the Lime scandal who was arrested and indicted, released his second statement. The resignation is interpreted not only as criticism that Kim's revelations and the ensuing political controversy are far removed from the essence of the matter but also as a reaction against Minister Choo's exercise of investigative command authority.
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