Jung Sung-ho: "Conclusion of Three Major Special Prosecutor Investigations... A Turning Point to Break with Politically Motivated Prosecutors"

[Financial News] Jung Sung-ho, Minister of Justice (MOJ), commented on the conclusion of the so-called 'Three Major Special Prosecutor Investigations'—the cases involving insurrection, Kim Keon Hee, and Corporal Chae—stating that this should serve as an opportunity to break away from politically motivated prosecutors.
On the 29th, Minister Jung wrote on his Facebook page that the Three Major Special Prosecutor Investigations "have clarified the full picture of the December 3 Martial Law insurrection, addressed the injustice suffered by a young Marine who lost his life, and fulfilled the people's stern demand to uncover various corruption and abuse of power allegations involving Kim Keon Hee that had been concealed by those in power."
He further noted, "The achievements and limitations of the Three Major Special Prosecutor Investigations will be judged by the people and by history." However, he emphasized, "The fact that the special prosecutor's investigation finally revealed the truth and led to indictments regarding Kim Keon Hee's alleged involvement in the Deutsche Motors stock manipulation case and the Lady Dior bag bribery—cases for which the Prosecution Service had previously granted her impunity—requires deep reflection and remorse from the Prosecution Service."
Minister Jung especially underscored the ongoing responsibilities of the Prosecution Service, mentioning the remaining investigative tasks after the special prosecutor's work. He stated, "I have serious doubts as to whether the Prosecution Service has truly fulfilled its role in the various cases that the National Office of Investigation (NOI) must now handle." He added, "The Prosecution Service, which should be a champion of justice, has instead become the subject of investigation. The Prosecution Service must engage in painful self-reflection and thorough introspection."
He continued, "The so-called 'politically motivated prosecutors,' who have undermined the pride of the 10,000 members of the Prosecution Service who quietly serve the public, must be held fully accountable as the truth comes to light regarding their abuse of prosecutorial power." He stressed, "I will do my utmost to ensure that 2026 becomes the year when the Republic of Korea completely severs ties with politically motivated prosecutors."
Minister Jung also reiterated the necessity of Prosecution Reform. He said, "Prosecution Reform, which demands fair and restrained exercise of authority, is now an unavoidable call of the times." He added, "This special prosecutor investigation should serve as another turning point to break away from the history of the Prosecution Service colluding with power or becoming a power unto itself, distorting substantive truth through abuse of authority."
He concluded, "The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) will establish institutional systems so that the new Serious Crimes Investigation Agency and Public Prosecution Office, which will be launched next year, can serve as defenders of the people's rights rather than guardians of power."

scottchoi15@fnnews.com Choi Eun-sol Reporter