Democratic Party: 'We understand concerns over abolishing prosecutors' supplementary investigation rights; will prepare safeguards'

South Korea's main opposition party, the Democratic Party, has acknowledged public concerns regarding the proposed abolition of prosecutors' supplementary investigation rights. The party stated it is aware of the worries and is committed to developing comprehensive safeguards to ensure the public does not suffer any negative consequences from the impending changes to the Criminal Procedure Act.

Lee Joo-hee, the Democratic Party's floor spokesperson, explained that the party's task force on the Criminal Procedure Act amendments recently proposed a bill. This bill seeks to eliminate prosecutors' direct supplementary investigation powers while strengthening their right to request supplementary investigations. Lee emphasized that the proposed legislation is not merely about removing authority but is designed to create a more robust system of oversight and checks on investigative bodies.

"The proposed Criminal Procedure Act amendment is not a simple abolition of authority," Lee stated in a written briefing. "It is designed to meticulously monitor and check investigative agencies by solidifying the right to request supplementary investigations, the right to request corrective actions, and the right to request reinvestigations."

“

We are well aware that there are voices of concern, and we will definitely prepare robust supplementary measures so that the public does not suffer any harm.

The party stressed that it takes the concerns raised about the changes very seriously. Lee assured that during the review process in the Legislation and Judiciary Committee, the party would conduct thorough deliberations to ensure that strong supplementary measures are put in place. This commitment aims to prevent any disadvantages or harm to the public resulting from the legal reforms.

The Democratic Party also directed criticism towards the ruling People Power Party, urging them to return to the Legislation and Judiciary Committee, which they claim has been left vacant under the pretext of organizing the National Assembly unilaterally. The opposition party seeks a collaborative approach to legislative matters.

“

The proposed Criminal Procedure Act amendment is not a simple abolition of authority. It is designed to meticulously monitor and check investigative agencies by solidifying the right to request supplementary investigations, the right to request corrective actions, and the right to request reinvestigations.