The National Serious Crime Investigation Agency is facing questions about its independence even before its first chief takes office. At a parliamentary confirmation hearing on October 14, nominee Kim Ji-yong described Yoon as the first “political prosecutor” and pledged to prevent the politicization of investigations. The nominee has also faced public criticism from ruling-party figures, including Gyeonggi Governor Choo Mi-ae and lawmaker Kim Yong-min, prompting President Lee Jae-myung to respond directly.
The dispute has raised concerns that internal political conflict could weaken the agency chief’s authority and cast doubt on the neutrality of an organization assigned to investigate six major crimes.