Odongun Vows to Remain Faithful to Duties, Apologizes for Shortcomings in Martial Law Probe

"I Humbly Accept Both Public Support and Criticism"
"We Will Strive Even Further as an Anti-Corruption Investigative Agency"

Odongun, the head of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials, is responding to questions regarding President Yoon Sukyeol's decision to cancel the arrest at the plenary meeting of the Legislation and Judiciary Committee held at the National Assembly on March 12, 2025. Photo by Kim Hyunmin

Odongun, head of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials, held his first press conference on the 17th, one year and one month after taking office. He stated, "I will not forget my original intentions and will strictly uphold political neutrality and independence in the performance of my duties," adding, "I will remain faithful to my core responsibilities."

In his opening remarks, Odongun said, "In my inaugural address a year ago, I pledged to shield the CIO from external pressures so that our prosecutors could work according to the law and principles with conviction. I will do my utmost to conduct thorough investigations of high-ranking officials without sanctuary and to fulfill the mission of eradicating corruption crimes among high-ranking officials."

Odongun also shared his thoughts on the 12·3 Emergency Martial Law. He said, "The CIO exercised its authority to request transfers of cases in a prudent and swift manner, launching investigations into allegations of insurrection and abuse of power. I regret that, given the expectations placed on the CIO, there were aspects that fell short." He continued, "I humbly accept both the support and criticism from the public, and I promise that we will continue to strive as an anti-corruption investigative agency."

Odongun further stated, "As reported in the media, the CIO is currently investigating the so-called 'Bangcheopsa Incident' and has achieved considerable results. Despite our limited manpower, we are continuing efforts such as conducting searches and seizures, so I ask for your continued attention."

Odongun especially emphasized, "Now that the wave of martial law has passed with the decision of the Constitutional Court, the CIO, as an independent investigative agency born from the public’s desire for a clean Republic of Korea, is working to fulfill its founding purpose of eradicating corruption in the public sector through strict investigations into power-related corruption and crimes committed by high-ranking officials."