Paris: President Lee Jae Myung has nominated a former senior prosecutor as the inaugural head of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency ahead of the new investigation body's scheduled launch next month, a presidential spokesperson said.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee plans to refer the nomination of Kim Ji-yong, former chief of the criminal affairs department at the Supreme Prosecutors Office, to the National Assembly for a confirmation hearing. This announcement was made by presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung on Monday (local time) in Paris, where the president is on an official visit.
The decision follows Interior Minister Yun Ho-jung's recommendation of Kim for the position. The agency, set to launch on October 2, will assume investigative authorities as prosecutors are stripped of all investigative powers under a revised Criminal Procedure Act. Kang emphasized Kim's expertise in investigations, noting that he is well-suited to establish and lead the new agency effectively.
In his first public appearance since the nomination, Kim Ji-yong arrived at his confirmation hearing preparation office in Seoul on Tuesday. He expressed his commitment to preparing thoroughly for the legislative scrutiny he will face. "My shoulders are heavy from immense responsibility as I have been nominated the head of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency, which is being newly established at a time of large changes in the criminal justice system," Kim told reporters.
Kim further stated, "If I am given the opportunity to work, I will do my best to quickly stabilize the organization and ensure no gaps in the state's response to serious crimes." His comments reflect the critical role the new agency is expected to play in the country's evolving legal landscape.