The Corruption Investigation Agency has expressed strong opposition to proposed legislative changes that would transfer its investigative powers over high-ranking officials, including the president and members of the National Assembly, to the Serious Crimes Agency.
During a regular briefing at the Government Complex in Gwacheon on October 6, an agency official criticized the ruling party's direction for amending the agency's law, stating, "The Serious Crimes Agency and police are under the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, and the minister is appointed by the president. Entrusting investigations to an agency under the president's command represents a clear regression in the checks and balances among investigative bodies."
The official added, "This could significantly undermine the agency's practical independence and public trust, contradicting the purpose of establishing the agency to rigorously investigate crimes committed by high-ranking officials."
The current law specifies that the agency can investigate the president, prime minister, members of the National Assembly, judges, prosecutors, police officers of the rank of superintendent or higher, and senior military officers.
However, it is reported that lawmakers from the ruling party are considering a revision that would reorganize the agency's investigative targets to focus on senior officials within the judiciary and law enforcement, transferring investigative powers over the president and National Assembly members to the upcoming Serious Crimes Agency. Members of the Democratic Party on the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee plan to hold a discussion on the complete overhaul of the agency's functions on October 7.
The agency clarified that it had not engaged in any prior consultations or communications with the ruling party regarding these changes. The official stated, "The agency is an independent body that strictly performs its legally defined duties," dismissing any claims of prior collusion. However, Park Sang-hyun, the agency's investigation planning officer, is scheduled to attend the National Assembly discussion on October 7 to convey the agency's official stance and concerns.
The agency expressed support for expanding its organization to a national level to better oversee local judicial and investigative bodies. The official noted, "Fundamentally, the agency has national jurisdiction. We have previously investigated the superintendent of education in Busan," but added, "Without sufficient personnel or an expanded organization, we cannot manage the scope of work required."
The official also mentioned, "With the current staffing levels, it is challenging to fulfill the agency's founding purpose," emphasizing that issues related to the treatment of personnel in the establishment of the Serious Crimes Agency and the Prosecution Agency are crucial. He stated, "It is not beneficial for capacity enhancement if there are disparities in treatment for the same work." Additionally, he highlighted the urgent need for personnel expansion and improved working conditions to strengthen investigative capabilities and effectively respond to crime.
When asked whether agency investigators or prosecutors might leave for the Serious Crimes Agency, the official replied, "As far as I know, that is not the case yet. It is not about whether they leave; if the treatment is unfavorable, they might reconsider their options."
Regarding the investigation involving Kim Seung-won, a member of the Democratic Party, which has been assigned to the agency's first investigation division, the official stated, "The case is currently assigned, and we are continuously reviewing the legal aspects and records in accordance with procedures."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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