Kim Ji-yong: “Strictly on guard against separate-case and fishing-expedition investigations”

Kim Ji-yong, the first chief of the Serious Crime Investigation Agency (SCIA), said in his first remarks after taking office that he would be judged on the accuracy and fairness of investigations, not on the number of detentions or indictments. He said he would guard against past investigative practices, including investigations targeting specific individuals and investigations into unrelated matters, while strengthening specialist investigative capabilities and building a system that takes responsibility for cases from start to finish.
At his inauguration ceremony at SCIA headquarters in Jung District, Seoul, on the 20th, Kim said, “I want the public to judge investigative performance not by the number of detentions or indictments, but by how accurately we have established the facts and how fairly we have applied the law.”
He stressed, “Complying with due process is not an obstacle that undermines investigative efficiency; it is the foundation for protecting people’s rights and securing the credibility and legitimacy of investigations. We will be strictly vigilant against investigations targeting specific individuals, separate-case investigations, and fishing expeditions.” He also said that when criminal allegations are not sufficiently substantiated, he would reach a conclusion appropriate to the circumstances. He identified political neutrality and investigative independence as key principles as well.
He also pledged to strengthen specialist investigative capabilities. Kim stressed, “Serious crimes are becoming increasingly sophisticated and organized, and the methods are growing more complex. We need to pool the capabilities of people with extensive investigative experience and experts in a range of fields, including accounting, finance, information and communications, and science and technology.” To that end, he said he would strengthen core capabilities such as digital forensics, financial analysis, funds tracing, and international cooperation, and provide systematic education and training.
He also plans to establish the “accountable investigation system” he has long championed. Kim explained, “We will give investigators sufficient authority and responsibility to build an investigative system in which they manage cases proactively and comprehensively from opening through investigation to conclusion.” He also emphasized protecting crime victims and socially vulnerable people.
He also stressed the importance of unity in an organization bringing together personnel from different institutions. Kim said, “An employee’s institution of origin and former rank must not be the basis for evaluation or personnel decisions. We will create a fair workplace where only expertise, diligence, a responsible attitude, and performance are assessed fairly.” Reporter Choi Eun-sol