Prosecutor General Kim Osu Submits Resignation Letter... "Deeply Responsible for the Progress of the 검수완박 Legislation"

by Heo Kyungjun

Published 17 Apr.2022 11:07(KST)

Kim "Hope this becomes an opportunity for careful consideration... Agreement is absolutely necessary"

Prosecutor General Kim Oh-soo is responding to reporters' questions as he returns to the Supreme Prosecutors' Office in Seocho-gu after visiting the National Assembly in Yeouido on the 15th to express opposition to the legislation for the complete removal of prosecutorial investigative authority (Geomsuwanbak). Photo by Moon Ho-nam munonam@

[Asia Economy Reporter Heo Kyung-jun] Prosecutor General Kim Oh-soo resigned, taking responsibility for the introduction of the 'Geomsu Wanbak (Complete Removal of Prosecutorial Investigation Authority)' bill.

On the 17th, Prosecutor General Kim stated, "First, I would like to bow my head and apologize to the public and members of the prosecution for the conflicts and turmoil surrounding the legislative process of the so-called Geomsu Wanbak bill."

He added, "I believe that a new criminal justice system, which greatly affects the human rights of the people, should be operated for at least 10 years before discussing whether to reform the system. Even in that case, public hearings, gathering public opinion, and bipartisan consensus are absolutely necessary."

He continued, "Having been involved in prosecutorial reform for the first time in 70 years while serving as the Deputy Minister of Justice in 2019, I deeply feel responsible that the prosecution has once again been targeted for reform just one year after the implementation of the reform, and that legislative procedures to completely abolish prosecutorial investigative functions are underway. As Prosecutor General, I take responsibility for the conflicts and turmoil that have arisen and have submitted my resignation to the Minister of Justice," he added.

He also said, "I sincerely hope that my submission of the resignation will serve as a small opportunity for lawmakers to reconsider once more during the legislative process in the National Assembly. I firmly believe that the members of the prosecution will trust the National Assembly, which represents the people, to make wise decisions based on the will and public opinion of the people, and I earnestly urge them once again to carry out their duties entrusted to us with utmost diligence and care without any negligence."