Justice Minister Nominee Calls for Separation of Prosecutorial Powers

On July 16, 2025, Jeong Seong-ho (정성호), the nominee for Minister of Justice, addressed the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee during his confirmation hearing. He emphasized the need to resolve the issue of separating the investigative and prosecutorial powers of the prosecution, a key promise of President Lee Jae-myung's (이재명) administration.

In his opening remarks, Jeong stated, "Judicial reform is a core task facing the Ministry of Justice," and highlighted that the debate over the separation of these powers has been ongoing since the Criminal Procedure Act was established in 1954. He argued that ensuring the political neutrality of the prosecution and distributing concentrated powers is an unavoidable direction for reform.

However, he cautioned that the reform process should not cause discomfort or anxiety among the public and should not undermine the investigative capabilities that the prosecution and police have developed over the years. Jeong pledged that if appointed, he would fulfill his role in protecting citizens from crime while also advancing the necessary reforms in the Ministry of Justice.

During the questioning by lawmakers, Jeong addressed his previous comments suggesting that the charges against President Lee Jae-myung should be dropped. He clarified that those remarks were made before his nomination and were from the perspective of a politician affiliated with a specific party. He stated, "Now, as a candidate with public responsibilities, I believe it is inappropriate to express my views separately," adding that decisions regarding the dropping of charges are made by the prosecutor in court.

Just days before his nomination, on June 26, Jeong had stated during a university lecture that the public was aware of the ongoing trial when they elected the president and that dropping the charges would be appropriate.

Jeong also expressed discomfort with being labeled as a 'pro-Lee Jae-myung leader,' stating, "I find that term very unpleasant. I have repeatedly said that I dislike it and have never played such a role or held such a position." He emphasized that he has not engaged in partisan activities and would act in the best interest of the public if appointed as Minister of Justice. He also assured that he has no intention of imposing disciplinary actions or political pressure on the prosecutors involved in the investigation of President Lee's case.