South Korean Lawmaker Revises Stance on Prosecutors' Investigation Rights

Park Ji-won, a member of the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee, has altered his position on the controversial supplementary investigation rights of prosecutors. Previously a firm opponent of these rights, Park now advocates for their retention in specific circumstances, particularly concerning crimes that affect vulnerable populations.

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I used to say, 'We absolutely oppose supplementary investigation rights, it's absurd,' but I have revised my view.

"I used to say, 'We absolutely oppose supplementary investigation rights, it's absurd,' but I have revised my view," Park stated. He elaborated that these rights should be preserved for cases involving "socially weak individuals, youth, female sexual crimes, and crimes against the disabled."

This adjustment marks a significant departure from his earlier stance, which favored the complete abolition of the prosecutors' supplementary investigation rights. The shift comes amid growing debate within the ruling party, where an increasing number of lawmakers are arguing for the necessity of retaining these rights in exceptional cases. This is seen as a measure to provide checks and balances on police investigative powers, especially following the 'Jang Yoon-gi case,' which involved a high school student murder.

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Socially weak individuals, youth, female sexual crimes, and crimes against the disabled should have supplementary investigation rights.

Park emphasized that the supplementary investigation rights should be utilized within a scope that "helps the weak." His comments on YTN Radio's 'Jang Seong-cheol's News House' reflect a nuanced approach, acknowledging the potential for abuse while recognizing the need for oversight in protecting victims. The recent controversies surrounding alleged police misconduct, including poor investigations and suspicions of evidence tampering or collusion, have fueled this internal discussion within the Democratic Party.

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Supplementary investigation rights should be used within a scope that helps the weak.