Police Reform Committee Holds First Meeting; Prime Minister Emphasizes Accountability

The Police Reform Committee, established under the Prime Minister's Office, officially launched on October 14. The committee aims to strengthen oversight of the police, which has gained expanded investigative powers due to reforms in the criminal justice system, and to develop measures for the exercise of police authority that the public can trust.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the first meeting of the Police Reform Committee was held in the Government Seoul Building, chaired by Prime Minister Han Seung-soo. The meeting included participation from civilian chair Kim Seon-taek, an honorary professor at Korea University's Law School, along with other civilian members.

In her opening remarks, Prime Minister Han stated, "With the launch of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency and the Prosecution Service on October 2, a major overhaul of the criminal justice system has been implemented, separating investigation and prosecution. The police now bear greater authority and heavier responsibilities than ever as the core of investigations."

She also called for enhanced controls in light of the expanded police powers. "The direction of reform is clear. The increased police authority must be strictly regulated," she emphasized. "As authority grows, so must the mechanisms for oversight. Designing effective internal and external controls should be a priority."

Prime Minister Han highlighted the need for police capabilities to focus on protecting the daily lives of citizens. She urged that the reform process should consider transparent measures for the exercise of police authority that the public can understand.

"I hope the police will view this reform not as an external demand but as an opportunity for rebirth," she said. "I expect today’s first meeting to be the starting point for a police force that the public can trust and rely on."