Kim Jin-wook on 100 Days: "The Path of the Public Corruption Investigation Office is a Road History Has Not Taken"

Kim Jin-wook, Chief of the High-ranking Officials' Crime Investigation Agency (Gong-su-cheo), is discussing with a panel of journalists after delivering a keynote speech on "Democratic Republic and the Rule of Law" at the Kwanhoon Forum held at the Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul, on the 25th. Photo by Kim Hyun-min kimhyun81@

[Asia Economy Reporter Baek Kyunghwan] Kim Jin-wook, Chief of the High-ranking Officials' Crime Investigation Unit (Gong-su-cheo), marked the 100th day since the establishment of the unit by addressing the staff about their 'pride and sense of mission as the inaugural members of Gong-su-cheo.' Kim said, "The path the inaugural Gong-su-cheo is taking is one that our history has never traveled before," urging them not to forget their sense of mission.

On the 30th, Kim delivered this message to the staff, expressing, "I deeply appreciate the hard work of all of you who have sacrificed even your weekends for the tasks at hand."

Kim reflected, "Reaching 100 days after birth means having overcome dangerous hurdles, building immunity, and laying the foundation for healthy growth. Our office has also grown through many experiences," adding, "After appointing prosecutors and awaiting the appointment of investigators, it seems we are now finding stability."

He also shared concerns from outside perspectives. "Given that the public's 25-year-long hope for eradicating corruption in the public sector ultimately led to the birth of our office after many twists and turns, there were high expectations as well as some apprehensive views," he said. "Since we proceeded by preparing things one by one without fully equipped conditions, there were trial and errors, and it was twice as difficult compared to other organizations."

However, he emphasized pride and a sense of mission as the inaugural members of Gong-su-cheo. In particular, he referred to German philosopher Immanuel Kant's 'three conditions of happiness': 'what work to do,' 'whom to love,' and 'what to hope for,' encouraging hope for Gong-su-cheo's future.

He continued, "The path the inaugural Gong-su-cheo is taking is one that our history has never traveled before. While there will be trial and errors and difficulties along the way, if we do not forget why Gong-su-cheo was born and why we are here, we will overcome hardships and sufferings with ample strength."

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