First Investigation on Im Eun-jung Over Alleged Neutrality Breach

[Anchor]

The Serious Crimes Investigation Agency (SCIA) has launched an internal inspection into Im Eun-jung, head of the Gwangju Regional Serious Crimes Investigation Agency, who has openly opposed Kim Ji-yong, the nominee for the agency's inaugural chief. Minister of the Interior and Safety Yoon Ho-jung explained the background of the inspection order, stating that Im's conduct fell short of maintaining appropriate dignity.

Reporter Shin Yong-il has the details.

[Reporter]

The SCIA stated that it received an official document from the Minister of the Interior and Safety ordering an inspection into the remarks made by Gwangju Regional SCIA Head Im Eun-jung, and immediately instructed the inspector general to carry out the investigation.

This marks the SCIA's first official inspection of an official since the agency's launch on October 2.

Previously, following the nomination of Kim Ji-yong as SCIA chief, Im publicly criticized Kim's background, stating, "A person who should serve as a negative example must not become SCIA Investigator Number One."

Meeting with reporters, Minister of the Interior and Safety Yoon Ho-jung explained the background of the inspection order, stating that Im's words and actions not only violate the dignity required of a senior public official but also carry the potential of breaching political neutrality.

[Yoon Ho-jung / Minister of the Interior and Safety: (Im) has been making remarks that appear to align with the arguments of certain political circles. There is a possibility this could be regarded as a political act intended to demonstrate that there is support within the (SCIA).]

Yoon also mentioned that he had expected Im to exercise investigative powers justly and without yielding to external pressure, but expressed disappointment that she is falling short of those expectations.

[Yoon Ho-jung / Minister of the Interior and Safety: In particular, we must question whether there is an attempt to exercise influence using her position (as head of the Gwangju Regional SCIA) regarding the president's appointment power and the procedures taking place under the Constitution and laws.]

The SCIA will proceed with the inspection process for Im in accordance with the State Public Officials Act. If it determines that disciplinary action is necessary, it will request a disciplinary resolution from the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. Should the interior minister follow through, the final disciplinary action will be decided by the Disciplinary Committee under the direct jurisdiction of the Prime Minister.

Im, who posted on social media that she feels sorrowful and regrettable about becoming the target of the agency's first inspection, did not issue any separate official stance.

(Photo: Yang Hyun-chul | Video Editing: Won Hyung-hee | Design: Cho Soo-in)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.