On July 31 the National Assembly passed a bill abolishing prosecutors' direct investigative powers. Acting Prosecutor General Koo Ja-hyeon offered to resign in response.
The revision to the Criminal Procedure Act passed the plenary session 175-2 with one abstention. It removes prosecutors' authority to conduct direct or supplementary investigations, allowing them only to request judicial police officers.
Acting Prosecutor General Koo Ja-hyeon told reporters he submitted his resignation to take responsibility. He expressed disappointment that the changes may hinder victim protection.
The People Power Party urged President Lee Jae Myung to veto the bill. Cheong Wa Dae said it respects the parliamentary decision and will work for smooth implementation.
A separate revision to the National Assembly Act was also introduced, prompting a filibuster by the opposition.