Park Beom-gye "Final Pitcher for Prosecutor Reform... Prosecutors, Please Join"

[Asia Economy Reporter Baek Kyunghwan] Park Beom-gye, the nominee for Minister of Justice, emphasized that prosecutors must take the lead in improving organizational culture for prosecutorial reform. According to Park, the president’s nomination of him as Minister of Justice carries the meaning of asking him to be the finishing pitcher for prosecutorial reform, and for this, the cooperation of prosecutors is absolutely necessary.

On the afternoon of the 4th, Park met with reporters in front of the Seoul High Prosecutors’ Office building in Seocho-dong, Seoul, and said, “There has been significant progress in institutional improvements related to prosecutorial reform.” Park evaluated that the launch of the High-ranking Officials’ Crime Investigation Agency (HOSA), investigative authority reform, organizational restructuring centered on criminal trials, and an environment for human rights-friendly investigations have all been established.

However, he pointed out that “the hierarchical organizational culture unique to the prosecution still remains,” adding, “In a diversified democratic society, there must be various opinions and communication with the outside.” He emphasized, “The definition of justice that prosecutors talk about differs from the justice that members of society talk about,” and “a ‘coexistence justice’ that all members of the social community can accept is necessary.” In particular, he said, “The foremost way to achieve coexistence justice is human rights,” and “I will meet with prosecutors with the theme that justice must harmonize with human rights to achieve coexistence justice.”

When asked by reporters whether he plans to meet with Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-yeol first, he avoided a direct answer. However, he mentioned, “I also have a plan for the way to meet with prosecutors.”

He also revealed principles regarding the upcoming prosecutorial personnel reshuffle scheduled for this month. Park said, “How could I not have any thoughts about (principles or plans)?” but added, “I will explain when lawmakers ask during the confirmation hearing.”

Regarding the COVID-19 cluster infection incident in correctional facilities, Park expressed his stance. He said, “I am deeply concerned,” and “If I pass the confirmation hearing and receive the appointment, I will implement the measures I have in mind like lightning.”

Meanwhile, concerning the controversy over the omission of real estate reports that arose that day, he apologized, saying, “Regardless of the reason, it is my fault, and I apologize to the people. I will do better.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.