Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho: "Election Crime Investigations Must Prioritize Winning Candidates Who Committed Fraud"

Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho emphasized today (June 18) regarding investigations into election crimes from the June 3 local elections, stating, "Focus on investigating those who were elected, not those who lost."

During the monthly Ministry of Justice work meeting, which was broadcast live today, Minister Jung stated, "The most important thing is the investigation and punishment of those who were elected through fraudulent or illegal elections."

Minister Jung pointed out, "Experience shows that investigative agencies have focused on investigating defeated candidates rather than winners," adding, "There is also a tendency to overlook the ruling party in regions where they are dominant, and to overlook the opposition party in regions where they are dominant."

He further emphasized, "Investigations into those who won through fraudulent elections must take priority over those who lost and have no power. Only then can an atmosphere of fair elections be created and the rule of law be established."

Minister Jung also raised concerns that the investigation period for election crimes could face setbacks due to the scheduled abolition of the Prosecutors' Office this coming October.

Minister Jung said, "The establishment of the Public Prosecution Service and the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency is scheduled for October, and a significant number of prosecutors will be changing positions," adding, "I am worried about whether investigations will be conducted properly, as the statute of limitations for these election crimes expires on December 3."

The statute of limitations for election law violation cases is six months, which is relatively short compared to other cases.

Under the standard procedure where the police investigate complaints and accusations before forwarding them, most cases are transferred to the prosecution one to two months before the statute of limitations expires.

As the prosecution organization itself is set to disappear and be reorganized into the Public Prosecution Service and the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency in October, when investigations into forwarded cases would typically be in full swing, concerns are emerging that disruptions to ongoing election case investigations are inevitable.

Minister Jung urged, "When related cases are reported, please cooperate actively with the police to ensure that swift investigations can take place."

He also emphasized, "The reason the prosecution exists is to protect the socially and economically vulnerable," adding, "Please strive to be the last bastion that can look after victims who have been treated unfairly."

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.