South Korean Democrats reaffirm calls to abolish prosecutors' investigative powers

As the Democratic Party gears up for its August leadership election, prominent figures are reinforcing their stance on the complete abolition of prosecutors' supplementary investigative powers. This push comes amid ongoing debate about prosecutorial reform and public trust in the justice system.

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Prosecutors are truly a group that cannot be reformed. We must abolish even a speck of supplementary investigative power.

Representative Jeong Cheong-soo, a potential candidate for party leadership, strongly criticized the prosecution's actions in the recent trial of former Gyeonggi Province Vice Governor Lee Hwa-young. He stated that prosecutors are a group that is "difficult to reform" and warned that granting them even minimal supplementary investigative powers could lead to their abuse against the government. The court recently sentenced Lee to four months in prison for perjury related to allegations of a "salmon drinking party."

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo echoed the sentiment for reform, stating his belief in separating investigative and prosecutorial functions. He indicated that President Lee Jae-myung has previously expressed the need for minimal exceptions to such a separation. However, Han acknowledged the significant public distrust in prosecutors and suggested that the matter should be thoroughly discussed in the National Assembly, with a commitment to follow the parliamentary decision if it leans towards abolition.

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I have always believed that abolishing supplementary investigative powers is correct, based on the principle of separating investigation and prosecution.

Disagreements exist regarding the timeline for processing the relevant amendment to the Criminal Procedure Act. Lawmaker Kim Yong-min advocated for immediate discussion by the Legislation and Judiciary Committee, suggesting that an agreement could be reached and passed before the party convention. In contrast, Representative Song Young-gil proposed that the issue should be deliberated and resolved in the National Assembly in September, after the formation of a new party leadership.

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If even a spoonful of supplementary investigative power is given, they might make a sword with it and wield it against the government at any time.