First lady Kim Keon-hee enters the presidential office in Seoul with Cambodian first lady Pich Chanmony during the latter’s visit to Korea on May 16, 2024. (courtesy of the presidential office)
The recent reshuffle of high-level prosecutors in Korea caused quite a stir last week. The President’s appointments of chief prosecutors amid a sensitive investigation into the first lady raise questions about abuse of power.
Despite the legal authority held by the President to appoint top prosecutors, concerns have been raised about potential interference in the investigation involving his wife. While officials maintain silence, questions around the impartiality of the probe persist.
The scrutiny intensified as newly appointed prosecutors entered key roles in ongoing investigations related to the first lady, prompting speculation about ulterior motives behind the personnel shuffle.
The situation has sparked debates over prosecutorial reform in Korea, with calls for legislative changes to ensure the independence and integrity of the justice system.
Prosecutor General Lee One-seok answers questions from the press while on his way into the Supreme Prosecutors’ Office in Seoul’s Seocho District on May 14, 2024. (Kim Young-won/The Hankyoreh)
As the political landscape continues to shift, the actions of the President and the prosecution service are under intense scrutiny. The unfolding events may pave the way for significant changes in how justice is administered in Korea.