Jeong Seong-ho, the Minister of Justice, stated that the new criminal justice system, which will include the launch of the Public Prosecution Service and the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency in October, must ensure that public safety is not compromised.
During his farewell speech at the Ministry of Justice in the Government Gwacheon Complex on August 26, Jeong said, "We are on the brink of unprecedented change. The Ministry of Justice must transform into an institution solely for the people."
He emphasized that the criminal justice system should evolve to protect the daily lives of citizens safely and ensure that no one is wronged through fair procedures.
Jeong also acknowledged various concerns surrounding the implementation of the new system. He urged that anticipated issues be addressed with preemptive measures and that any problems arising post-implementation be swiftly rectified.
Additionally, he highlighted the importance of crime prevention and recidivism reduction. "Prevention and recidivism prevention are more important than punishment," he said, urging for enhanced capabilities to respond to the increasing rates of juvenile crime. He also encouraged efforts to alleviate overcrowding in correctional facilities through diverse strategies.
Since taking office as the first Minister of Justice under the Yoon Suk-yeol administration in July 2022, Jeong has pursued reforms in the criminal justice system. His tenure is marked by achievements such as expanding organization, personnel, and budget, addressing crimes that infringe on public welfare, amending commercial laws, and securing consecutive victories in large-scale international investment disputes (ISDS).
As he steps down from his ministerial role, Jeong stated, "I will return to the National Assembly and fulfill my duties while wholeheartedly supporting the Ministry of Justice."
He added, "As Confucius said, 'Without trust, nothing stands.' A nation cannot exist without the trust of its people, and if we fail to earn the trust of the public, neither law nor justice can stand firm. Each individual must focus solely on the people in their respective roles, as rebuilding public trust is the path to establishing true justice."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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