Police Chief Kim Chang-ryong: "Real Estate Speculation Investigated Regardless of Status... Recovery of Illicit Gains"

Opening Remarks by Police Command at Video Conference

Kim Chang-ryong, Commissioner of the National Police Agency, is presiding over a nationwide command video conference at the National Police Agency in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, on the morning of the 26th.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] Regarding the investigation into real estate speculation allegations stemming from Korea Land and Housing Corporation (LH), Police Commissioner General Kim Chang-ryong repeatedly urged frontline police stations to conduct the investigation with the "fate of the police" at stake.

On the morning of the 26th, Kim presided over a "National Police Command Video Conference" at the police headquarters in Migeun-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, and made these remarks. In his opening remarks, Kim ordered, "Regardless of status or rank, conduct a strict investigation based on law and principles without any sanctuary, and take all possible measures such as applying for confiscation and recovery of land and assets acquired through speculation to reclaim unjust profits."

Kim particularly mentioned that this investigation is a critical moment on which the fate of the police depends. He said, "Through the reform of investigative authority, we must take seriously the powers and responsibilities entrusted by the people and prove the police's investigative capabilities fully. This is the first test," adding, "We must mobilize all available resources to deliver results that the public can truly trust."

He also emphasized a "responsible investigation" that prioritizes human rights. Kim stated, "Throughout the investigation process, the rights of those involved in the case, guaranteed by the Constitution and laws, must be protected, and investigations must be conducted through lawful procedures and methods without any prejudice or bias."

Furthermore, regarding the upcoming April 7 by-elections just two weeks away, Kim said, "While strictly investigating election-related offenses according to law and principles, we must firmly maintain political neutrality," and urged, "For important cases, the heads of provincial police agencies should personally and carefully oversee to avoid any disputes over fairness."

He continued, "Along with safety activities at ballot printing facilities, storage sites, and polling stations, please pay special attention to perfect personal protection activities for key figures and candidates so that the election, called the 'festival of democracy,' can be conducted fairly and peacefully."

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