SEOUL – President Yoon Suk Yeol announced on Sunday the appointment of Shim Woo-jung, currently Vice Justice Minister, as the new prosecutor general, succeeding Lee One-seok whose term concludes next month.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Shim Woo-jung, age 53, has a robust background in law enforcement and legal administration. Since passing the national bar exam in 1994, Shim joined the Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office in 2000 and has held high-ranking positions at the Seoul prosecutors' office, the Justice Ministry, and the Supreme Prosecutors Office (SPO). Chung highlighted Shim’s qualifications and commitment to uphold the Constitution and protect the rights of the public.
Shim's nomination follows a career highlighted by a deep understanding of criminal procedures and the prosecution system, with a noted dedication to the rule of law. "Shim has good knowledge of criminal procedures and the prosecution system, and has a firm belief about the establishment of the rule of law," Chung stated during a press briefing. Shim’s appointment is pending a parliamentary confirmation hearing, after which he will become the second prosecutor general under President Yoon's administration.
The announcement comes at a tumultuous time for the prosecution, which is currently handling a sensitive investigation involving First Lady Kim Keon Hee. Shim commented on the investigation's proceedings, emphasizing the importance of adhering to evidence and legal principles. This follows recent controversies within the SPO and the Seoul prosecution office over the handling of the first lady’s case, where there were discrepancies in communication and protocol concerning her questioning over alleged gifts and stock manipulation involvement.