[사설] 종합특검 이첩사건 체계적 수사 이어갈 방안 마련을

The Comprehensive Special Investigation Team (COST) concluded its 180-day operation. The investigation led by former Presidential Office Chief of Staff Kim Tay-ho and former State Audit Office Chief Yang Jin-hwi, among others, had notable achievements despite some shortcomings. The team was unable to clarify the circumstances surrounding the change of the O-yeong-gyeong Expressway's route and failed to determine the truth behind the 'No.

1 notebook' and other key investigations. The COST indicted 58 individuals, including former President Yoon Seok-yeol and National Security Agency Chief Kim Jae-hwi, based on allegations of issuing a 12·3 emergency power justification message and other issues. The COST also indicted COST members and other officials, such as former Prosecutor General Sim Wu-jeong, for their alleged involvement in questionable actions.

However, there are concerns about the propriety of indicting high-ranking officials like former Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency Chief Kim Geon-hui and former Chief of Staff for the Ministry of Strategy and Finance Kim Joon-hyung. Some have questioned whether these indictments were excessive. The COST concluded its investigation, stating that the topic under investigation was too extensive to be fully addressed within the remaining time, so they reluctantly wrapped up the case.

The COST proposed that a permanent organization be created to handle complex investigations involving multiple national agencies, as the prosecution of charges like rebellion is particularly challenging due to the involvement of numerous institutions.