Lawmakers Hong Gi-won and Kim Nam-hee of the Democratic Party, who had publicly opposed the abolition of prosecutorial supplementary investigation powers, expressed their intention to accept the party's adopted stance. They also commented on Justice Minister Jeong Seong-ho's resignation, stating, "This is something I have heard about for a long time. It is something he must clarify himself."
Both lawmakers responded to the approval of a bill to abolish supplementary investigation powers during a Democratic Party policy meeting on July 24, emphasizing, "In the Democratic Party, we must follow the party line."
On July 27, Hong appeared on KBS Radio's 'Current Affairs' program, noting that the decision to abolish supplementary investigation powers was made without significant dissent during the meeting. He added, "We decided to reflect all cases of the seven major crimes targeting vulnerable groups. We have also strengthened oversight mechanisms over the police through rights to meet with prosecutors and to hear opinions."
Kim echoed this sentiment on MBC Radio's 'Kim Jong-bae's Focus,' highlighting the intense deliberation process at the party level. He stated, "We adopted the party line through vigorous discussions. In the Democratic Party, we must follow the party line."
Kim specifically mentioned that a dedicated team for supplementary investigations will be established within the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency to protect victims' rights. He asserted, "If the police cannot conclude a case and there are issues, there is now a procedure to request supplementary investigations. The right to request supplementary investigations has been strengthened."
They also addressed Justice Minister Jeong's recent announcement of his intention to resign, stating, "I have heard about his intention to return to the National Assembly for a long time."
Hong noted, "I have been hearing about his intention to step down for several months," but praised Jeong for maintaining his convictions. Kim added, "He has repeatedly mentioned his desire to return to the National Assembly," but clarified that any specific details should come directly from Jeong.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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