Why Are Two Senior Prosecutors in South Korea Resigning Amid Controversy?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, two high-ranking prosecutors in South Korea have stepped down amidst a scandal involving former First Lady Kim Keon Hee and allegations of stock price manipulation. Their resignations come after intense scrutiny over their handling of the investigation, raising questions about accountability in the justice system.
Key Takeaways
- Two senior prosecutors have resigned amid controversy.
- Allegations involve former First Lady Kim Keon Hee.
- Investigation into stock price manipulation continues.
- Public scrutiny over the justice system is increasing.
- Constitutional Court rejected impeachment claims.
Seoul, May 20 (NationPress) In an ongoing controversy surrounding the investigation into former First Lady Kim Keon Hee, two top prosecutors in South Korea have decided to resign. They faced backlash for their alleged mishandling of the case involving Kim's supposed role in a stock price manipulation scandal, judiciary sources disclosed on Tuesday.
Lee Chang-soo, head of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office, along with Cho Sang-won, the deputy chief prosecutor at the same office, submitted their resignation letters to the Justice Ministry earlier today, as reported by the sources.
Lee has reportedly indicated health issues as the reason for his resignation.
The prosecutors, alongside the chief state auditor, were impeached by the National Assembly in December, following the failed martial law attempt by the now-impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol on December 3.
They have been accused of not indicting the former First Lady and making misleading statements during press briefings regarding the investigation, according to a report by Yonhap news agency.
However, the Constitutional Court overturned the impeachments on March 13, ruling that questioning the First Lady outside the prosecution's office did not constitute an abuse of authority and that no false statements were made.
On May 16, prosecutors executed a search warrant at Kim Keon Hee's residence and at Chanel Korea as they investigated various suspicions linking the ousted President to his wife and a controversial shaman.
Investigators from the Seoul Southern District Prosecutors Office were dispatched to search the residence of Kim's former secretary and the offices of Chanel Korea to gather evidence regarding gifts allegedly received by Kim from shaman Jeon Seong-bae, also known as Geon Jin.
Authorities are probing claims that a senior official from the Unification Church provided Kim with a diamond necklace and a Chanel bag as part of a quid pro quo after Yoon's election in 2022.
Chanel Korea stated it is cooperating with the investigation, although they did not provide detailed comments on the matter.
Last month, law enforcement also conducted searches at Yoon's residence in Seocho-dong, southern Seoul, as well as at Kim's office and the homes of two of her aides.
However, they reportedly did not recover significant evidence, including the necklace in question, nor were they able to unlock the former First Lady's cellphone.
Point of View
It’s imperative to view this situation through an unbiased lens. The resignations of these senior prosecutors highlight the complexities of the legal system in South Korea. The implications of their actions and the public's reaction will continue to shape the narrative surrounding accountability and governance in the nation.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the resignation of the prosecutors?
The prosecutors faced criticism for allegedly mishandling a probe into former First Lady Kim Keon Hee's involvement in a stock price manipulation scheme.
What were the consequences of their actions?
They were impeached by the National Assembly, although the Constitutional Court later overturned the impeachments.
What investigations are ongoing?
Investigations are focused on the relationships between former President Yoon, his wife, and a controversial shaman, with searches conducted at various locations.
How has the public reacted to these events?
Public opinion remains divided, with many expressing concerns about the integrity of the justice system.
What is the current status of the investigation?
Prosecutors are still gathering evidence and investigating allegations of gifts exchanged for favors.
