Democratic Party of Korea Chair Chung Chung-rae said the party is conducting "behind-the-scenes coordination" on the prosecution reform bill to ensure reforms "meet public expectations," signaling possible further revisions amid growing internal demands for changes.
"We will ensure the flag of prosecution reform is not torn and its symbolism is not tarnished," Chung said at a field Supreme Council meeting held in Sunchang County, North Jeolla Province on Tuesday. "As I have repeatedly stated, prosecution reform is the flag and symbol of the Lee Jae-myung administration and the Democratic Party."
The remarks come as the party faces internal discord over the reform legislation establishing a Public Prosecution Office and Serious Crimes Investigation Agency. After party members opposed the government's initial bill announced in January, the administration worked with the party to produce a revised version. While the party adopted the revised government bill as its official position, hardline lawmakers on the Legislation and Judiciary Committee are pushing for additional modifications.
On Sunday, Chung had indicated openness to changes, saying it was "time for internal discussion to address incomplete areas and potential poison pill provisions."
Regarding the parliamentary investigation request on "fabricated indictments by political prosecutors under the Yoon Suk-yeol administration" reported at the National Assembly plenary session on Monday, Chung vowed to "thoroughly uncover records of fabricated indictments by political prosecutors and hold them strictly accountable."
"There have been many revelations lately related to Ssangbangwool Group Chairman Kim Sung-tae. What exactly happened in Room 1313 at the Suwon District Prosecutors' Office?" Chung said. "Shocking facts are emerging that Chairman Kim may have used it as his office. This should also be subject to the parliamentary investigation."
Chung also pledged support for North Jeolla Province's development, saying the party would back the Saemangeum project, which began in earnest with Hyundai Motor Group's 9 trillion won investment agreement. He noted the government has committed to regulatory improvements, incentive support, and infrastructure development for investments.
On the June 3 local election primary for North Jeolla Governor, Chung said the party is conducting "the fairest nomination screening process" to select a candidate who can work for the region in what will be the first local election since North Jeolla Special Self-Governing Province was officially launched in January 2024.
