Top investigator downplays concerns of expanded police role from prosecution reform

A senior police officer downplayed concerns about the police being given too much authority due to upcoming prosecution reform. Hong Seok-ki, head of the National Office of Investigation, addressed worries stemming from revisions to the Criminal Procedure Act. The act will remove investigative powers from the prosecution. Hong told reporters that the new investigative body, the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency, will reduce the scope of investigations solely conducted by the police.

Under the reform, the agency will handle investigations in seven categories of major crimes. The broader reform has raised concerns over reduced oversight of police investigations. Hong acknowledged the increased police responsibility and pledged to cooperate with requests for supplementary investigations.