Minister of Justice Jung Sungho remarked today (August 3) regarding the passage of the Criminal Procedure Act amendment, which centers on abolishing prosecutors' direct supplementary investigation powers, saying, "This is the first time the Criminal Procedure Act has been revised at the speed of light," and adding, "If side effects occur, they must be fixed quickly."

Meeting with reporters after attending the appointment ceremony for new prosecutors at the Government Complex Gwacheon this morning, Minister Jung stated, "We designed the new system with good intentions, but no one can predict how it will operate in the field."

"The criminal justice system is crucial for protecting the lives, property, and safety of the public," Minister Jung said. "Because situations may arise where side effects worsen victims' suffering or fail to protect them properly, prompt revisions must be made if it does not fit the reality of the field."

However, Minister Jung clarified that the Ministry of Justice will not directly file a competence dispute trial regarding the amendment or recommend that President Lee Jae-myung exercise his veto power.

Minister Jung noted, "The Ministry of Justice presented a government-agreed proposal during the bill review process, and much of the relevant content was reflected," adding, "It is inappropriate for the Ministry of Justice to file a competence dispute trial."

When asked by reporters whether he would recommend President Lee to exercise his veto power, he responded, "Since the veto system was introduced, ministers have never directly interfered with it," and stated, "I believe it is inappropriate for the Minister of Justice to recommend the exercise of a veto."

Minister Jung also expressed his intention to resign once again.

He said, "This is not because of this issue (the passage of the Criminal Procedure Act amendment), but due to poor health from various issues," adding, "I have severe sleep disorders, which places a considerable burden on performing my duties as the Minister of Justice, so I have expressed my intention to resign."

Regarding Acting Prosecutor General Koo Ja-hyun expressing his intention to resign, Minister Jung said, "At times like this, I urged prosecutors not to be shaken and to work with pride as those responsible for protecting public lives, property, and safety," and added, "While Acting Deputy Prosecutor General Koo's resignation is regrettable, I hope frontline prosecutors will steadfastly fulfill their assigned duties."

(Photo: Yonhap News)