 |
Park Sang-yong, who investigated the “Ssangbangwool North Korea remittance” case. (Photo=Yonhap News Agency) |
[Alpha Biz= Kim Sang Jin] South Korea’s Ministry of Justice has suspended Park Sang-yong from duty over allegations of misconduct during the investigation into the “Ssangbangwool North Korea remittance” case.
On April 6, the ministry announced that Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho ordered the suspension, citing potential violations of official duties and conduct that raises concerns about the fairness of the investigation.
The decision followed a request from Acting Prosecutor General Koo Ja-hyun, made under Article 8 of the Prosecutors’ Disciplinary Act, which allows for suspension when a prosecutor under investigation is deemed unfit to continue performing duties.
The ministry stated that, given the nature of the alleged misconduct, it would be inappropriate for Park to remain in his role during the ongoing inspection. Under the law, such suspensions may last for up to two months.
Separately, the Supreme Prosecutors’ Office is continuing an internal inspection through a human rights review task force, while a related allegation of witness coercion has been referred to a special counsel probe. Authorities indicated that further disciplinary action will be taken promptly based on the outcome of the investigations.
AlphaBIZ Kim SangJin(ceo@alphabiz.co.kr)
