▲ Minister of Justice Jeong Sung-ho answers questions from reporters after attending the appointment ceremony for new prosecutors at the Government Complex Gwacheon on the 3rd.
Minister of Justice Jeong Sung-ho addressed the passage of the Criminal Procedure Act revision bill—which centers on abolishing prosecutors' direct investigation powers—stating, "It is the first time the Criminal Procedure Act has been revised at the speed of light," and adding, "If side effects arise, they must be fixed quickly."
Speaking to reporters after attending the appointment ceremony for new prosecutors at the Government Complex Gwacheon this morning (August 3), Minister Jeong said, "We designed the new system with good intentions, but no one can predict how it will actually operate in the field."
Minister Jeong explained, "The criminal justice system is crucial for protecting the lives, property, and safety of the public. Because side effects could worsen victims' suffering or lead to situations where they are not properly protected, prompt revisions must be made if the system does not align with realities on the ground."
However, Minister Jeong added that the Ministry of Justice will not directly file a competence dispute trial regarding the revision bill, nor will it recommend that President Lee Jae-myung exercise his veto power.
Minister Jeong stated, "The Ministry of Justice presented an agreed-upon government proposal during the bill review process, and much of the relevant content was reflected. Therefore, it is inappropriate for the Ministry of Justice to file a competence dispute trial."
Regarding reporters' questions on whether he would suggest that President Lee exercise his veto power, he remarked, "Since the introduction of the veto system, a minister has never directly been involved in it. I believe it is inappropriate for the Minister of Justice to recommend the exercise of a veto."
In addition, Minister Jeong expressed his intention to resign once again.
"This is not because of this issue [the passage of the Criminal Procedure Act revision bill], but due to poor health from various matters," Minister Jeong stated. "I am suffering from severe sleep disorders, which places a considerable burden on performing my duties as Minister of Justice, so I have offered my resignation."
Regarding Acting Prosecutor General Koo Ja-hyun (Deputy Prosecutor General at the Supreme Prosecutors' Office), who previously led the prosecution and also tendered his resignation, Minister Jeong said, "I urged the prosecutors to take pride and work as persons in charge of protecting public lives, property, and safety without being shaken, especially at times like this. While Deputy Chief Koo's resignation is regrettable, I hope front-line prosecutors will remain steadfast and fulfill their assigned duties."
(Photo: Yonhap News)
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