[Financial News] Kim Ji-yong, nominee to become the first chief of the Serious Crime Investigation Agency, cited former President Yoon Suk Yeol and independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon as examples of “political prosecutors,” distancing himself from the former prosecution service. While rebutting point by point the controversy over his being a “pro-Yoon prosecutor” and allegations raised about his time in senior prosecution posts, he stressed that the new agency would not repeat the prosecution’s failings, such as targeted investigations and fishing-expedition-style probes. At a confirmation hearing before the National Assembly’s Public Administration and Security Committee on the 14th, nominee Kim responded to a question from People Power Party lawmaker Park Deok-heum about whether he viewed the prosecution as a target for reform, saying, “Various harmful practices have come to light, and there are problems.” Asked for examples of political prosecutors, he said, “Former Prosecutor General Yoon Suk Yeol would probably be at the top of the list of those who have had a negative influence.” Asked whether lawmaker Han was included as well, he said, “I think it would be difficult to deny.” In his opening remarks, nominee Kim also said, “I will not repeat practices that concern the public, such as targeted investigations, fishing-expedition-style investigations, and investigations conducted on the assumption that they will lead to indictments.” He added, “If an investigation does not establish that a crime was committed, I will not hesitate to bring it to an end decisively.” He actively addressed allegations concerning his handling of cases while working for the prosecution. He said he remembered being on the approval chain and signing off when former prosecutor Jeong Jin-ung was indicted in an abuse-of-authority assault case, but explained that he had drafted a review report arguing that the offense of assault under color of office had not been established. However, regarding his failure to submit a formal objection at the time, he said, “I regret that I may have been better off submitting one.” He also explained that he joined a statement opposing Yoon’s suspension from duty and disciplinary action not to defend Yoon, but because of concerns about due process. He said he had questions about the process proceeding without giving the person concerned an opportunity to explain. Regarding his relationship with Lim Eun-jeong, head of the Gwangju Serious Crime Investigation Agency, who became subject to an internal inspection after publicly criticizing him, he said he intended to cooperate rather than deepen the conflict. “I understand that the official in charge is conducting the inspection independently, and we should abide by its findings,” nominee Kim said. “I think Chief Lim also shares the goal of ensuring the agency gets off to a successful start.” He identified supplementary investigations and thoroughness in investigations as key priorities for the agency in its early days. “The authority to conduct supplementary investigations was removed from the Public Prosecution Office because of past abuses by the prosecution,” nominee Kim said, adding, “To prevent harm to the public, the Serious Crime Investigation Agency must fully carry out the role of conducting supplementary investigations.” He added, “We will handle the agency’s investigations thoroughly enough that the Public Prosecution Office will not need to review them again.” He also outlined plans to overhaul the investigation system in the agency’s early days by strongly implementing an “accountable investigation system,” under which it would manage long-term unsolved cases and take responsibility not only for investigation results but also for what happens after indictment. [email protected] Choi Eun-sol Reporter