[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyung-min] There is a possibility that the High-ranking Officials' Crime Investigation Unit (PCC) will begin its investigation into former Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-yeol as early as the 26th. Interestingly, it is also reported that former Prosecutor General Yoon will declare his presidential bid the very next day, drawing attention. It seems difficult for the PCC to avoid controversy over 'political neutrality' from the moment the investigation starts.
According to the legal community on the 20th, six prosecutors belonging to the PCC will complete their practical training at the Judicial Research and Training Institute and return to work on the 26th. The legal community expects the PCC to start investigating Yoon as soon as they return, due to a severe shortage of investigative personnel. Excluding the chief and deputy chief, there are only 13 prosecutors currently at the PCC.
On the 17th, PCC Chief Kim Jin-wook explained at a press briefing that the case involving Yoon had been registered but the investigation had not yet begun, adding, "It is not desirable for the PCC to avoid cases that have political controversy," showing his intention to proceed with the investigation.
At the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee meeting held the following day, he also revealed that they possess preliminary investigation materials that can serve as a basis for the investigation, in addition to the complaint against Yoon. Furthermore, in response to a question from Democratic Party lawmaker So Byung-chul asking, "Is Yoon currently a suspect?" Chief Kim answered, "Yes."
Former Prosecutor General Yoon was reported to the PCC by the Citizens' Action for Judicial Justice for two allegations. The charges include abuse of authority and obstruction of the exercise of rights. Yoon is suspected of failing to properly lead the investigation into the 'Optimus Fund fraud' case while serving as the head of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office from 2018 to 2019. Additionally, he is suspected of obstructing the inspection of the prosecution's alleged witness tampering (coercing witnesses to give false testimony) during the case involving former Prime Minister Han Myeong-sook.
Chief Kim asserted that the PCC would maintain 'political neutrality' and not influence the election regarding the investigation of Yoon, but the reality is challenging. If Yoon declares his presidential bid the day after the investigation begins, there is a high likelihood that the investigation's intent will be questioned. Even during the investigation, external uncomfortable scrutiny and pressure are inevitable. Regardless of the investigation's outcome, criticism will follow. If it is concluded that Yoon is guilty, voices may claim that the PCC interfered in the presidential election. Conversely, if the investigation ends with no charges, the PCC will face criticism for granting Yoon a clean slate.
Considering this, the investigation of former Prosecutor General Yoon is a very difficult task for the PCC. At the briefing, PCC Chief Kim responded to a question about whether the investigation would be completed before the opposition's presidential candidate is confirmed by saying, "There is no intention to influence the election." This implies that the investigation into Yoon will be wrapped up before the presidential race intensifies.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
