Moon: "Separation of Prosecutorial and Investigative Powers Is the Direction We Must Continue to Pursue" (Summary)

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy, reporter Lee Jieun] President Moon Jae-in emphasized his commitment to "reform of power institutions," stating that "the separation of prosecutorial and investigative powers is a direction we must continue to pursue."

On March 8, during a virtual briefing on the 2021 policy plans of the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of the Interior and Safety-connecting the Blue House, Gwacheon Government Complex, and Sejong Government Complex-President Moon made these remarks, noting, "This year marks the first year that reform of power institutions will take root in the field."

President Moon highlighted that significant progress had been made in reforming power institutions through the restructuring of investigative authority and the establishment of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO). However, he reiterated that the separation of prosecutorial and investigative powers is a direction that must be steadily advanced. He added, "Although this falls within the legislative domain, it is necessary to gather a wide range of opinions, including those of members of the prosecution."

He also pointed out issues regarding public trust in prosecutorial investigations. President Moon said, "The prosecution is the power institution that must be trusted the most. The exercise of prosecutorial authority must be fair, not arbitrary or selective, so that the public can have confidence in it." He continued, "Despite the efforts of the majority of prosecutors, public trust in the prosecution has not improved."

He further stated, "Prosecution reform can only succeed if the prosecution itself takes the lead. In particular, from the assignment of cases to investigation, prosecution, or non-prosecution decisions, those in authority must not act at their own discretion. There must be institutional improvements so that these processes are carried out fairly, based on objective rules and standards."

President Moon noted, "The investigative authority reform plan was implemented in January, and the CIO has also been launched. From now on, the police, the prosecution, and the CIO will coexist through checks and balances, respect human rights, and at the same time, enhance the state's capacity to respond to corruption and other crimes."

He also stressed the need to quickly strengthen the police's investigative command capabilities, saying, "A responsible investigative system should be established centering on the newly created National Investigation Headquarters, and the autonomous police system must be prepared without delay to improve the quality of public safety services."

President Moon emphasized the need to address child abuse within families, stating, "Child abuse in the home is difficult to detect without special attention. I hope the public can trust that the state is doing its utmost to protect children." He also asked the Ministry of Justice to actively pursue measures to recognize the right of tenants to terminate contracts if closure is unavoidable due to COVID-19, as part of efforts to restore livelihoods.