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

The ruling Democratic Party of Korea has promised to overhaul the police force in response to a mishandled missing-person case. Party floor leader Han Byung-do announced the pledge on Tuesday, following the discovery of what is believed to be the body of missing woman Jang Mi-ran on the southern island of Jeju. The delayed search was prompted by a police officer's premature closure of the missing-person case.

The incident has drawn significant attention, as the police are set to take on greater investigative duties in October, when prosecutors will relinquish their independent and supplementary investigative powers under a series of prosecution reforms initiated by the ruling party. Speaking at a party meeting at the National Assembly, Han vowed that the Democratic Party will work diligently to create a comprehensive plan for police reform and establish an investigation system that the public can trust.

"We will meticulously expose the police's misconduct and hold those accountable," Han urged, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in the police force.