[Full Text] Park Cheolwoo, Chief Prosecutor of Seoul Central District, "We Must View Cases Objectively, Free from Political Beliefs and Customs"

Inaugural Remarks: "The Prosecution Cannot Be Free from Public Criticism"
"Reflecting on Unconscious Arrogance and Questioned Moments"
"Though There Is Frustration, Internal Reflection Comes First"
"Justice Delayed Is Justice Denied"

Park Cheolwoo, the newly appointed Chief Prosecutor of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office, is delivering his inaugural speech at the inauguration ceremony of the 66th Chief Prosecutor of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office held at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office in Seocho-gu, Seoul on November 21, 2025. Photo by Yoon Dongju

Park Cheolwoo, Chief Prosecutor of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office, took office on the 21st, stating, "Let us begin by reflecting on the words and actions of the prosecution that may have appeared arrogant, even if unconsciously."

Chief Prosecutor Park said, "Prosecutors are well aware that we cannot be free from public criticism," adding, "We should reflect on whether there were any shortcomings or excesses that we may have overlooked without realizing it."

He also stated, "When we strive to view cases objectively, setting aside our own political beliefs or established practices, the public will once again recognize our efforts."

The following is the full text of Chief Prosecutor Park's inaugural address

Park Cheolwoo, the newly appointed Chief Prosecutor of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office, delivers his inaugural speech at the 66th Chief Prosecutor Inauguration Ceremony held at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office in Seocho-gu, Seoul on November 21, 2025. Photo by Yoon Dongju

It is a pleasure to work with you. First, I would like to express my deep gratitude to former Chief Prosecutor Jeong Jinwoo, who led the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office with excellence, and to all members who have quietly fulfilled their duties under challenging circumstances.

This Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office is a place where I have served four times, from prosecutor, deputy chief, chief, to deputy chief prosecutor. It is a truly moving experience. However, that sentiment is fleeting, as I am now faced with the heavy responsibility of taking on the role of Chief Prosecutor at such a difficult time.

Because of its role, the prosecution cannot be free from public criticism, and all members are well aware of this. However, there has never been a time when the sense of deprivation and self-doubt has been so great, as if all the passion we have poured in has been completely denied.

To be honest, I cannot deny my own feelings of frustration. How should we resolve this? Just as the prosecution is not a single entity, each of us has different thoughts and solutions.

Nevertheless, at the very least, let us begin by reflecting on the instances where the fairness of our investigative powers was questioned by the public, and on the words and actions that may have appeared arrogant, even unconsciously. This is not about assigning blame. Rather, it is about adopting an attitude of self-examination to see if there were any shortcomings or excesses that we may have overlooked without realizing it.

When we strive to view cases as objectively as possible, setting aside our own political beliefs or 'personal practices,' and when we objectively reflect on ourselves in this way, the public will once again recognize the sweat and effort we have poured into protecting them from crime, one by one.

Let us begin these efforts together, starting with the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office, which stands at the center of prosecutors' offices nationwide. Though the circumstances are difficult, let us devote ourselves wholeheartedly to the prosecution's essential work that can earn the public's trust.

There is a legal maxim that says, "Justice delayed is justice denied." Even at this very moment, many citizens are awaiting swift decisions from the prosecution. Let us focus the capabilities of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office on responding to crimes that directly affect the lives of the people, and establish ourselves as a prosecution that protects the daily lives of the public.

Effective judicial oversight and supplementary investigations regarding police investigations, which now account for a large proportion of cases, are crucial areas where the prosecution can be newly recognized for its significance by the public.

To this end, I will seek ways to enhance the efficiency of our work system and ensure appropriate allocation of resources so that each member can take pride and fully demonstrate their abilities.

We will pool the wisdom of all members to respond to discussions on changes and reforms to the prosecution system. Major changes to the organization and functions of the prosecution's work are approaching. While the criminal justice system may change, the prosecution's fundamental duty to protect the public from crime and safeguard their rights cannot change.

Together with each and every member of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office, I will work to ensure that the capabilities and values we have built up over 78 years with the public are not lost, but continue to develop and grow.

Let us move forward with humility, but with confidence. Thank you.

November 21, 2025

Park Cheolwoo, Chief Prosecutor of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office