Ruling Party to Propose Amendment to Criminal Procedure Law to Abolish Supplementary Investigation Rights

The Democratic Party announced plans on July 9 to propose an amendment to the Criminal Procedure Law aimed at abolishing supplementary investigation rights. With the launch of the Major Crime Investigation Agency and the Prosecution Service expected in October, the party emphasized the need for a swift review process by the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee to complete prosecutorial reform.

Kim Han-kyu, the party's floor policy chief, spoke to reporters after a policy coordination meeting at the National Assembly, stating, "The Democratic Party's task force on the Criminal Procedure Law has held several meetings. We will finalize the amendment during our last meeting at 2 p.m. today."

Kim highlighted that this amendment is the final piece of prosecutorial reform coinciding with the launch of the two new agencies, and he expects prompt discussions in the committee. He noted, "The committee may begin reviewing the bill as early as tomorrow. While I cannot specify a final processing date, we will expedite the review as much as possible. Depending on circumstances, it could be processed before the party convention in August."

He added, "I believe the People Power Party would not want the Democratic Party to act alone. I hope they will participate soon for in-depth discussions."

Lee Joo-hee, the party's floor spokesperson, reiterated the need for a swift review process for the amendment. She stated, "After discussions in the committee, we will determine whether to adopt the party's position through a thorough deliberation process in a general meeting of lawmakers. We must complete the bill's processing by October when the supplementary investigation rights are fully abolished."

She also acknowledged public concerns regarding the abolition of supplementary investigation rights, particularly in light of recent incidents such as the so-called 'Jang Yoon-ki case,' and assured, "We will prepare alternatives to alleviate public worries."

* This article has been translated by AI.