South Korea abolishes prosecutors' supplementary investigation rights

South Korea's National Assembly on July 31 passed a bill to abolish prosecutors' supplementary investigation rights, effectively ending their investigative powers after 78 years. The vote took place during a special July session of the assembly.

The bill's passage followed a filibuster, an extended debate aimed at obstructing the vote, which concluded just before the final decision. The vote saw 178 lawmakers present, with 175 voting in favor, two against, and one abstention. The main opposition People Power Party did not participate in the vote.

This legislative move significantly alters the landscape of law enforcement and prosecution in South Korea. The abolition of supplementary investigation rights means prosecutors will no longer have the authority to conduct investigations independently, shifting more power to the police. The ruling party championed the bill, framing it as a necessary reform to balance power and prevent potential abuses.

The opposition party has signaled strong disapproval, with sources indicating potential legal challenges. The People Power Party has stated its intention to file for a constitutional dispute and a judicial review of the legislation. This legislative battle underscores a deep political divide over the future of prosecutorial and police powers in the country.

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The bill to abolish prosecutors' supplementary investigation rights is passing the National Assembly's plenary session.