Lee calls for police's internal reform amid shift in investigative authority

President Lee Jae Myung has urged the police to undertake internal reform in response to a legal change that will transfer all investigative authority from prosecutors to the police. This shift in investigative power was recently approved through amendments to the Criminal Procedure Act. Lee made these remarks during a meeting with key advisors following the passage of the new legislation.

Ahead of the transition, the police have faced criticism over an incident involving a police officer on Jeju Island. The officer was accused of closing several missing-person cases without verifying the safety of the reported individuals, with two cases resulting in fatalities. Lee emphasized the need for a comprehensive internal overhaul, including thorough system improvements, in light of these recent incidents.

He called for a thorough review to identify any flaws in the methods and systems used to handle cases. The president highlighted that these recent police mishandlings have exposed a significant weakness in the management of the police force.