Prime Minister Han Sung-sook ordered a thorough investigation into the overall investigative process today (the 23rd) regarding the controversy over the police's botched investigation into the disappearance of Jang Mi-ran.

The Prime Minister's Office stated that Prime Minister Han expressed strong regret over the controversy and issued the urgent directive to the National Police Agency earlier that day.

Prime Minister Han instructed, "Closely verify whether there were any acts such as falsely closing the case during the receipt and processing of the missing person report," and added, "Promptly formulate and report fundamental measures to prevent recurrence."

She also emphasized, "Mobilize all available police forces to do your utmost in searching for the missing person," and stressed, "Respond strictly with a zero-tolerance policy toward prank calls or fake news that inflict further suffering on the missing person's family."

Jang went missing after leaving her home in Hallim-eup, Jeju City, in May.

The case became a controversy after it was revealed that although Jang's partner reported her missing at the time, the police closed the case without actually searching for Jang.

(Photo: Yonhap News)