[Anchor]

Kim Ji-yong, who has been appointed as the inaugural head of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency, stated on his way to work today (October 19) that he will "eradicate the politicization of investigations." His official inauguration ceremony is expected to be held around tomorrow.

Reporter Shin Yong-il has the details.

[Reporter]

Kim Ji-yong, the inaugural head of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency, took questions from reporters on his way to work for the first time since taking office.

This marks his first official public appearance since President Lee Jae-myung appointed him on October 15.

Chief Kim first stated that he would eradicate the politicization of investigations, saying:

[Kim Ji-yong / Head of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency: It is the eradication of the politicization of investigations. In the past, the conventional prosecution service had various harmful effects, such as the abuse of investigative powers.]

He emphasized that he would conduct investigations while maintaining political neutrality.

[Kim Ji-yong / Head of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency: Our agency will strictly uphold fairness, neutrality, and procedural justice to establish itself as an investigative body that causes no concern for the public.]

Asked about his future intentions to attend Cabinet meetings—amid recent controversies over the fairness of investigations sparked by the acting Prosecutor General's attendance at a Cabinet meeting—he avoided a direct answer.

[Kim Ji-yong / Head of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency: That will be appropriately determined in consultation with relevant laws and related agencies.]

He also explained directly about the early settlement and operational direction of the agency.

[Kim Ji-yong / Head of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency: I came to work on Friday and issued my first instructions, asking that the human and material infrastructure be completed quickly so that our agency can begin normal operations promptly.]

Chief Kim further emphasized that he will make every effort to protect vulnerable members of society.

[Kim Ji-yong / Head of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency: We will ensure there are no gaps in protecting vulnerable groups or crime victims, and furthermore, in safeguarding the rights and interests of the public. Protecting the rights and interests of the public can be said to be the fundamental goal of our agency.]

While President Lee is scheduled to award the certificate of appointment to Chief Kim this afternoon, the agency is expected to hold its official inauguration ceremony around tomorrow.

(Camera: Yang Hyun-chul | Video Editing: Jang Hyun-ki)