Inaugural SCIA chief attends Cabinet meeting amid political neutrality concerns

Kim Ji-yong, the first chief of the Serious Crime Investigation Agency (SCIA), joined President Lee Jae Myung for a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, igniting debate about the agency's commitment to political neutrality. Kim had received his official appointment letter from the president on Monday and was set to take his inaugural oath later that day.

The SCIA was established on October 2 as part of a sweeping overhaul aimed at restoring the criminal justice system's impartiality by eliminating prosecutors' independent investigative capabilities. Upon assuming his role, Kim stressed the agency's dedication to maintaining political neutrality and independence, stating he would decide whether to attend the Cabinet meeting after carefully reviewing applicable laws and consulting with relevant agencies.

Critics argue that the involvement of leaders from investigative agencies and the prosecution in Cabinet meetings could potentially compromise their political neutrality and independence. According to the principles governing such agencies, even officials in the presidential office are subject to investigation and prosecution, and regular in-person meetings with the president could potentially conflict with the agency's mission to uphold political impartiality.