Prosecutor General Shim Woo-jung expressed "deep regret" on the 5th over the National Assembly's approval of the impeachment motion against Lee Chang-soo, Chief Prosecutor of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office, and two other prosecutors.
On the same day, Shim met with reporters on his way home in the afternoon and said, "This is a very serious time. I deeply regret that the impeachment was unilaterally processed during such a time," adding, "Disputes over case handling should be resolved within the criminal justice system."
Shim stated, "As the person ultimately responsible for investigations, I will do my part to ensure that members of the prosecution can work steadfastly and confidently without wavering, and I will also lead the Central District Prosecutors' Office to prevent any gaps in responding to crimes affecting the public."
When asked whether the vacancies caused by the impeachment of the prosecutors would be filled through personnel appointments, Shim replied, "The current acting duty system is in operation," and added, "I will lead efforts to minimize harm to the public and ensure there are no gaps in crime response."
On the same day, the National Assembly passed the impeachment motion against Chief Prosecutor Lee, Deputy Chief Prosecutor Cho Sang-won, and Anti-Corruption Investigation Division 2 Chief Choi Jae-hoon during the plenary session. The duties of the three prosecutors, including Chief Prosecutor Lee, were immediately suspended, and the Central District Prosecutors' Office shifted to an acting duty system.
Regarding the investigation into the reported case related to President Yoon Seok-yeol's declaration of martial law, Shim said, "The investigation will proceed according to law and principles."
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