Kang: "President Lee believes that if something is done, it must be done properly"
Kim Minseok: "It is best to proceed meticulously so that it does not seem rushed"
Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hoonshik described the prosecution reform, centered on separating the investigative and indictment powers of the prosecution, as "a reform task that is the destiny of President Lee Jaemyung's administration." However, he emphasized that President Lee believes "if something is done, it must be done properly," highlighting that substance is more important than speed.
Kang began by saying, "President Lee has suffered the most due to politically motivated prosecutors," during a press briefing held at the Yongsan presidential office on the 19th. He added, "President Lee has called for precise, definite, and meticulous reform," and explained, "Prosecution reform is not an issue that can be patched up several times; if it is to be done, it should be done properly."
Kang further stated, "I expect there will be significant public discussion in the National Assembly," and added, "I also believe that Prime Minister Kim Minseok will consult with the National Assembly with this intention."
Earlier, at a press briefing on the same day, Prime Minister Kim Minseok said, "We will firmly proceed along the main direction, but it is important to proceed meticulously so that the public does not perceive it as being rushed. It is best to allow sufficient time for coordination between the government and the ruling party, as well as among the parties that have advocated for prosecution reform." This aligns with President Lee's remarks during a closed Cabinet meeting the previous day, when he asked Justice Minister Jeong Sungho, "For sensitive and core issues, a process of public discussion that informs the public is essential. Even if the process is expedited as much as possible, please ensure that it is not done hastily."
Prime Minister Kim also emphasized, "There will be debates during the legislative process in the National Assembly, and if necessary, public hearings could also be held. It is important to ensure that such discussions are sufficiently conducted, centering on the National Assembly, throughout the process."
Regarding a question about whether there is a coordinated legislative schedule with the government, in light of Democratic Party leader Jeong Cheongrae's campaign pledge to "complete prosecution, media, and judicial reforms before Chuseok," Kim responded, "It is good to proceed with a set goal, but if, during the process of addressing key issues such as the separation of investigative and indictment powers-which is of greatest public interest-there are points that require careful consideration for precise implementation, adjustments can certainly be made." He added, "I understand that the party's stated principle is to at least complete the prosecution reform demanded by the public by Chuseok."
Meanwhile, the ruling party, which holds a majority in the National Assembly, has already proposed several bills related to prosecution reform. The most likely plan involves abolishing the Prosecutors' Office and establishing a Serious Crimes Investigation Agency (SCIA) to transfer investigative authority. Additionally, a proposal has been made to establish a National Investigation Committee under the Prime Minister's Office to coordinate and prevent conflicts over investigative authority.
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