In a decisive move to address concerns over the balance of power in South Korea’s criminal justice system, President Lee Jae Myung has called for sweeping police reforms. During a Cabinet meeting, President Lee emphasized the necessity of creating a dedicated body tasked with overseeing these reforms, aiming to fortify accountability within the police force. The president has directed the prime minister’s office to solicit public feedback and formulate a plan to establish this supervisory body.
This call for reform follows significant legislative changes approved by parliament, which involve amending the Criminal Procedure Act. These revisions will strip the prosecution of its investigative authority, transferring sole responsibility for criminal investigations to the police. This shift has sparked concerns about the potential for the police to become the most influential government agency, prompting the president’s push for enhanced oversight.
President Lee highlighted recent incidents that have cast doubt on police procedures, particularly referencing the case of a woman who went missing on Jeju Island and was later found dead. This incident has drawn public scrutiny over the police’s handling of the investigation and underscored the need for greater police accountability.
Emphasizing the risks of unchecked power, President Lee warned that increased authority must be matched with heightened responsibility to prevent systemic failures in public safety. He stressed the importance of implementing changes that would ensure the police operate under a framework of accountability, thereby safeguarding public trust and safety.