Kim Jin-wook, Head of the Corruption Investigation Office, Responds to Concerns Over Only 13 Prosecutors Selected: "Please Wait a Little Longer"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyung-min] Kim Jin-wook, head of the High-ranking Officials' Crime Investigation Office (HCIO), said, "Please wait a little longer" regarding the fact that fewer prosecutors were selected than the quota.

On the morning of the 16th, as Kim arrived at the Government Complex Gwacheon, he responded to concerns that the investigation might be delayed because only 13 prosecutors were selected, far fewer than the quota of 23 (excluding the head and deputy head) at the HCIO.

Regarding the Supreme Prosecutors' Office's opinion that "even if the HCIO requests after the start of compulsory investigation, it is difficult to transfer the case," he stated, "It is difficult for us to accept that."

The HCIO and the prosecution are at odds over the HCIO's "right to request transfer" stipulated in Article 24, Paragraph 1 of the HCIO Act. The provision states, "If the HCIO head deems it appropriate for the HCIO to investigate in light of the progress and fairness controversies of the investigation and requests a transfer, the relevant investigative agency must comply."

In this regard, it is known that on the 14th, the Supreme Prosecutors' Office conveyed to the HCIO the opinion that once compulsory investigations such as search and seizure begin, it is inappropriate to request a transfer thereafter in terms of the "progress of the investigation."

Kim rebutted, "Search and seizure are conducted quickly at the early stage of the investigation to collect evidence," adding, "This does not correspond to the part where the investigation has progressed to a considerable extent."

However, he added, "Regarding the overlap of investigations, I agree and plan to actively reflect the point that the basic facts must be the same to request a transfer."

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