Ruling party vows police reform over mishandling of missing-person case

The Democratic Party of Korea, also known as the ruling party, has pledged to implement a comprehensive plan to reform the police force following the mishandling of a missing-person case. This commitment was made after a body believed to be that of missing woman Jang Mi-ran was discovered on Jeju Island, a southern resort destination. The delay in the search was attributed to a police officer's premature closure of the missing-person case.

The case garnered significant attention as the police are scheduled to assume more investigative responsibilities in October, when prosecutors will relinquish their independent and supplementary investigative powers due to ongoing prosecution reforms proposed by the ruling party. Han Byung-do, the floor leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, addressed the issue at a party meeting at the National Assembly.

He assured the public that the party would "coolly reveal the police's wrongdoing and hold those responsible strictly accountable," expressing the party's dedication to fulfilling its responsibilities in devising the reform plan and establishing a trustworthy investigation system.