As the prosecutor's office is set to be abolished for the first time in 78 years, a post on an online community has gained attention just one day before the change takes effect. The post, which appeared on the 'Prison Gallery' forum, has sparked heated discussions surrounding the overhaul of the criminal justice system.
On September 30, a lengthy post regarding the abolition of the prosecutor's office was published on 'Prison Gallery.' The author, identified as A, wrote, "Finally, it has happened, the abolition of the prosecutor's office. This is truly a historic moment. The day many have been waiting for has finally arrived."
A continued, "Now the name of the prosecutor's office will also fade into history. I can't believe how long we have waited for this. Now, I can welcome a new era with a much more comfortable heart."
A expressed satisfaction, stating, "This is really great. I feel good. Having experienced a trial myself, I understand how significant the power of prosecutors can be for individuals, so witnessing this change is particularly moving for me."
He concluded with, "Anyway, it has finally happened, really finally."
As the post spread, netizens focused more on the nature of the 'Prison Gallery' forum and the author's trial experience than on the content itself. One user remarked, "Isn't this just a case of 'Prison Gallery people celebrating'?"
Another user criticized, "To protect one person, the entire nation has been pushed to the brink. A country that abolishes the prosecutor's office to save a 30% approval rating."
Concerns were raised by users regarding the specifics and intentions behind the overhaul of the criminal justice system, with comments like, "Now, if something unjust happens due to the police, will they just accept it?" and "If public safety deteriorates, we should all carry self-defense weapons."
One user expressed confusion, stating, "I don't understand why they are touching the prosecutor's office when they could just self-pardon. I don't believe prosecutors are infallible. However, it seems hellish that 99% of prosecutors suffer because of a few political prosecutors like Yoon and Han."
Opinions also emerged regarding the effectiveness of separating investigation and prosecution. One user noted, "Countries that separate investigation and prosecution have solid victim relief measures in place, and victims can directly request additional investigations. But we have none of that, and we only use those examples when it suits us."
Another user questioned, "I don't understand the general public who support this. Ordinary people think, 'Isn't it a big deal if you don't know a police officer?' while 'Prison Gallery' members say, 'This is such a joyous occasion. Congratulations.' Who really benefits from this system overhaul?"
Meanwhile, the abolition of the prosecutor's office is not merely a name change but part of a broader reform to separate investigative and prosecutorial functions. According to the revised government organization law, starting October 2, the existing prosecutor's office will be dissolved, and the Public Prosecution Service under the Ministry of Justice and the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency under the Ministry of the Interior and Safety will be established. The Public Prosecution Service will handle the filing and maintenance of prosecutions, while the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency will focus on major criminal investigations. Routine investigations will be managed by judicial police officers.
The government's key aim is to create a structure that allows for mutual checks between investigative and prosecutorial bodies, enhancing the independence of investigations and protecting citizens' rights and human rights. However, opposition parties and critics have expressed concerns about the police's investigative capabilities, the appropriateness of case handling, and issues related to control during investigations and victim relief. In fact, voices within the police have also raised concerns about increased workload.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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