Seoul: The ruling Democratic Party (DP) has officially adopted a policy to revise the Criminal Procedure Act, aiming to remove the prosecution's authority to conduct direct investigations, including supplementary ones. This decision was made during a policy meeting attended by DP lawmakers, as confirmed by Rep. Lee Ju-hee, the party's floor spokesperson.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the proposed revision seeks to abolish the prosecution's supplementary investigative rights while expanding measures to protect victims. The decision reflects concerns about potential negative consequences if the prosecution's investigative powers are entirely removed. The party also plans to revise an act concerning the serious crimes investigation agency to create a dedicated team within the agency. This team would conduct supplementary investigations on crimes affecting socially vulnerable individuals.
The DP had earlier cemented its stance on eliminating the prosecution's supplementary investigative authority, despite some lawmakers expressing fears that it might weaken victim protection. Observers anticipate that the bill could be voted on in a plenary session as soon as next Thursday, following a review by the National Assembly's legislation and judiciary committee.
The DP's move is part of a broader prosecution reform effort, which includes dismantling the prosecution and establishing two separate agencies to handle investigations and indictments.