President Lee Jae-myung addressed the controversy surrounding the authority of the special prosecutor investigating allegations of politically motivated indictments by the Yoon Suk-yeol administration. He urged that provisions related to the transfer and handling of existing indictment cases be removed, emphasizing the need to focus solely on uncovering the truth.
During a press conference at the Blue House guesthouse, President Lee responded to a question about whether it was appropriate to grant the special prosecutor the authority to cancel indictments. He requested the National Assembly to take measures to avoid unnecessary controversies over indictment cancellations.
“Everything should be handled according to reason, law, and principles,” he stated, adding that it is undesirable for political disputes to arise from unnecessary expressions that could lead to misunderstandings about him or the government.
However, he stressed the importance of investigating the allegations of politically motivated indictments. “I am not the only one who has suffered from excessive investigations and indictments for political purposes during the previous administration,” he noted, mentioning journalists, media outlets, public officials, politicians, and civilians.
He continued, “It is appropriate to clarify the facts regarding cases suspected of malicious investigative manipulation through the special prosecutor, as misunderstandings arise when investigative and prosecutorial agencies under my command handle these matters.” He urged the National Assembly to swiftly clarify the facts through a fair and transparent special prosecutor investigation.
Regarding the controversy over indictment cancellations, he remarked, “It should be handled according to law, principles, and common sense based on the results,” expressing regret that it has become a political issue that obscures the essence of the matter.
On the recurring personnel issues, including the withdrawal of ministerial candidates and related controversies, he acknowledged shortcomings in the verification process and stated that he would reassess the personnel verification system. “We strive to improve the system, but it is always lacking,” he said. “While we have done our best, additional issues arise, and judgments different from ours are sometimes raised.”
He added, “It is our fault and inadequacy for not being prepared for such points,” and announced plans to review the personnel system. However, he cautioned, “I cannot guarantee that no issues will arise in the future, but I will do my best.”
Regarding his declining approval ratings, he attributed it to his own shortcomings. “I have pondered a lot. There were many aspects I did not understand, and I wondered if it was due to specific events or issues,” he said. “Ultimately, I have come to believe that it is due to my own inadequacies.”
President Lee reflected on his lack of consideration, sensitivity, and communication, acknowledging, “It is natural for those affected by my policies to feel pain and resistance, and I may have tried to ignore that.” He concluded, “I think I lacked respect for the people, and that is something I need to reflect on.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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