Hong Gi-won, a lawmaker from the Democratic Party, introduced a bill on July 14 that would allow prosecutors to conduct supplementary investigations in exceptional circumstances. He stated, "We need to discuss how to better protect the public," adding that the bill would serve as a minimal safety measure for citizens. This comes as voices within the party call for a complete abolition of supplementary investigative powers, highlighting the need for a limited approach.
During a press conference at the National Assembly, Hong emphasized, "Our goal for prosecutorial reform is to create a system that protects citizens' rights and safety, ensuring that victims are not unjustly treated." The proposed amendment permits supplementary investigations by prosecutors in cases of sexual violence, stalking, abuse of children, the elderly, and disabled individuals, as well as crimes affecting vulnerable populations, such as voice phishing and similar offenses. It also allows for supplementary investigations in cases involving arrests, those nearing the statute of limitations, and minor offenses.
To prevent the abuse of supplementary investigative powers, the bill strictly applies the principle of identity to ensure that such investigations do not lead to unrelated inquiries. Additionally, if compulsory measures are needed during a supplementary investigation, approval from the local prosecutor's office chief is required. The bill has been co-sponsored by 11 lawmakers, including Hong, Ko Min-jeong, Kwak Sang-eon, Kim Nam-hee, Moon Jin-seok, Mo Kyung-jong, Min Hong-cheol, Park Kyun-taek, Park Hee-seung, Lee So-young, and Joo Cheol-hyun.
Previously, Hong reportedly sent letters to party members to persuade them regarding the bill. In these letters, he questioned, "If even one unjust victim arises from a complete ban on supplementary investigations, can we truly call it a successful reform?" He stressed the need to design the system based on citizens' rights rather than prosecutorial authority.
Recently, the Democratic Party has been pushing for a swift abolition of supplementary investigative powers. However, there is growing caution and opposition regarding this move, with concerns that abolishing the system could create gaps in uncovering the truth in cases of sexual crimes and offenses against vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly. Nonetheless, the hardline stance within the party for complete abolition remains firm, and further discussions are expected at the lawmakers' meeting scheduled for later today.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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