Park Beom-gye "Differences in Sympathy for Yoon's Pledges? Fully Understand the Position of Other Employees"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyung-min] Minister of Justice Park Beom-gye expressed "full understanding" regarding the fact that the work report submitted to the Presidential Transition Committee contained content somewhat contrary to his stance opposing President-elect Yoon Seok-yeol's campaign promises.

On the morning of the 30th, while heading to the Government Complex Gwacheon, Minister Park told reporters, "My position has been consistent, but since the report was extended by an hour, there must have been some persuasion from the transition committee side. Although I am the person to take office on May 9, our staff members are the ones who will remain, so there must have been difficulties."

However, Minister Park reiterated his existing position opposing the abolition of the investigative command authority. He expressed concern, saying, "If the investigative command authority is abolished, the prosecution will still hold all powers of investigation, prosecution, maintenance of public prosecution, and execution of sentences, which will increase its ripple effect and influence." He emphasized, "Moreover, they are trying to revise the priority investigation rights of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), but this will make it difficult to guarantee checks and balances, fairness, and justice within the prosecution."

He added, "There have been discussions on adjustment of investigative rights, de-prosecution of the Ministry of Justice, and investigative command authority. According to the principles of the rule of law and responsible administration, no institution is free from checks."

Regarding the revision of the criminal case disclosure prohibition regulation, he said, "The previous minister created it, and I have concretized and further refined it. I will listen to the Supreme Prosecutors' Office regarding its practical feasibility, and if I am convinced, I will cooperate where necessary."

On the Daejang-dong special prosecutor investigation, he stated, "There are no exceptions to the rule of law, and I believe a special prosecutor is necessary as a measure to guarantee fairness for the prosecution as well." When asked whether he is considering a permanent special prosecutor by the authority of the Minister of Justice, he replied, "I will consider it."

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