Discontent, inaction, and insistence: Ruling party in disarray as 'supplementary investigation powers abolition' nears

Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon has signaled his intention to step down, potentially reflecting internal discord within South Korea's ruling party regarding the impending abolition of prosecutors' supplementary investigation powers. Han stated at a National Assembly committee meeting on July 27 that "new wine should be put in new bottles," indicating his belief that a new minister should oversee the final stages of prosecutorial reform.

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New wine should be put in new bottles.

While Han cited health reasons for his potential departure, political observers interpret his move as an indirect expression of dissatisfaction. Han has previously voiced concerns about the potential negative consequences of completely removing prosecutors' supplementary investigation rights, advocating for alternative measures. His statement suggests a belief that a new appointee, aligned with the party's legislative push, should finalize the reforms.

The presidential office, however, denied that Han had officially tendered his resignation. This suggests President Lee Jae-myung wishes for Han to remain in his post to ensure the smooth transition of prosecutorial powers, separating indictment and investigation functions by October. Accepting Han's resignation now could solidify the perception of conflict between the administration and the ruling party over the reform.

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The presidential office has not officially confirmed the Justice Minister's resignation. The resignation is not true.

Within the Democratic Party, some lawmakers urged Han to stay, emphasizing the need for him to see the reforms through. Park Jie-won argued that Han's health could withstand the year, urging him to "die trying to make the president successful." Kim Nam-hee suggested Han should complete the reforms scheduled for October. Others noted that the administration's views might not have been fully considered during the reform process, leaving the presidential office in a difficult position with no obvious successor.

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Even if health permits until the end of the year, it is necessary for a close aide to have the attitude of dying while making the president successful.

The opposition People Power Party criticized Han's potential resignation as "the height of irresponsibility," suggesting that key figures are seeking to distance themselves from the controversial reform. Representative Kwak Gyu-taek speculated that Han's resignation stems from his opposition to the ruling party's rushed legislative agenda, which aims to abolish supplementary investigation powers before the party's national convention.

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Given that various laws are to be implemented in October, it would be better for him to finish it himself.