Seoul: Justice Minister nominee Jung Sung-ho vowed Wednesday to accelerate reforms aimed at separating the prosecution's investigative and indictment functions, stating it is an "unavoidable" trend. In a parliamentary confirmation hearing, Jung emphasized the need to reduce the concentration of power within the prosecution, a reform initiative that has been discussed since as early as 2004, and insisted it should be "completed as soon as possible."

According to Yonhap News Agency, the five-term lawmaker from the ruling Democratic Party asserted the separation of the prosecution's powers is a necessary step forward. He highlighted the importance of designing the separation process carefully to ensure the protection of citizens' rights and to maintain the principle of checks and balances between investigative agencies.

During the hearing, when asked about the possibility of revoking the indictment of President Lee Jae Myung, Jung, known as a close aide to Lee, stated that intervening in specific cases would be inappropriate. He cautioned that such actions could lead to "political misunderstandings," and emphasized the importance of adhering to legal and procedural norms.

Since President Lee took office in early June, trials involving alleged violations of the election law and other criminal cases have been suspended by courts in accordance with constitutional provisions. These provisions bar the criminal prosecution of a sitting president, adding complexity to ongoing legal and political considerations.