Minister of Justice Jung Sung-ho stated on September 8 that he would "cooperate fully to ensure the government reorganization plan, which includes the abolition of the prosecution office, is faithfully implemented."
Speaking to reporters on his way home that day, Minister Jung said, "The reorganization plan is an agreement among the party, the government, and the presidential office," adding, "What matters is not where the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency will go, but establishing institutional safeguards to prevent the abuse of investigative powers."
Regarding opposition from prosecutors in the criminal divisions of local prosecution offices, he noted, "There has been significant public dissatisfaction over the prosecution monopolizing investigative and indictment powers and attempting to abuse its authority," and added, "Even within the prosecution, there is reflection on conducting investigations for the sole purpose of indictment against certain individuals, while conducting lenient investigations for others."
He continued, "The most important goal is not prosecution reform itself, but rather enhancing public benefits and creating a safer country free from crime," expressing his belief that "these aspects will be thoroughly considered."
On the issue of supplementary investigative authority for prosecutors, he said, "It is one of several issues concerning what institutional safeguards should be established to prevent primary investigative agencies from abusing or misusing their investigative powers," and added, "Various opinions must be thoroughly discussed during the subsequent legislative process."
Regarding the prosecution's loss of the 'Geonjin Buddhist Monk's Gwanbongwon Band' evidence, Minister Jung stated, "Because the public does not trust the prosecution, I believe the best way is for the Kim Kun-hee special prosecutor to investigate." However, he also remarked, "There are some differences of opinion on whether this falls within the scope of the Kim Kun-hee special prosecutor's investigation," and added, "Handling it through the permanent special prosecutor is also an option, but it will require consultation between the party and the government."
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