Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung has appointed a former prosecutor as the special inspector in charge of investigating corruption allegations involving the president's family and key aides, a presidential spokesperson said Monday. The move marks a significant step in addressing concerns over potential misconduct at the highest levels of government.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung announced the appointment of Choi Kil-su, a former senior prosecutor, from among three candidates recommended by the rival parties and the bar association. Choi's appointment is aimed at ensuring an impartial and thorough investigation into the allegations that have raised public concern and political tensions.
The independent inspector general position was established in 2014 under then President Park Geun-hye, but it has been left vacant since 2016. The role is critical in maintaining checks and balances within the executive branch, particularly when allegations of misconduct emerge involving those in close proximity to the president.
By law, the National Assembly must recommend three candidates with at least 15 years of legal experience, from which the president is required to select one. This process is designed to ensure that the individual appointed is adequately experienced and capable of handling complex investigations with integrity and independence.