Prosecutorial interference in South Korea has sparked major debate after prosecutors chose not to appeal a high-profile corruption case. Consequently, the case, involving a Seongnam housing development, has drawn scrutiny over alleged ties to President Lee Jae Myung. Critics argue the prosecution’s inaction weakens public confidence and suggests political influence.
The controversy escalated after the prosecution missed the Friday deadline to appeal a lower court ruling against five suspects. Specifically, the suspects orchestrated a scheme to defraud Seongnam municipal authorities of 480 billion won, about 329.7 million dollars. They received prison sentences of four to eight years and were immediately detained.
Opposition lawmakers quickly condemned the decision. For instance, People Power Party Rep. Na Kyung-won accused the Justice Ministry of abusing power to block the appeal. She demanded Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho resign and suggested the presidential office may have influenced the case. Additionally, spokesperson Cho Yong-sool accused the ruling bloc of protecting one individual instead of upholding justice.
The Democratic Party defended the prosecution’s choice. Floor leader Rep. Kim Byung-kee called it self-restraint and said prosecutors followed their conscience. Moreover, he added that prosecutors who criticized the decision should face consequences. Kim proposed parliamentary inspections to prevent politically-motivated prosecutions.
Acting Prosecutor General Noh Man-seok said the decision followed consultations with Seoul Central District Prosecutor Jung Jin-woo and considered the Justice Ministry’s input. Earlier, Jung had offered to resign after failing to persuade the Supreme Prosecutors’ Office to approve the appeal. The Justice Ministry denied any direct interference.
Observers note that the case coincides with efforts to limit prosecutorial power. Proposed reforms would split the prosecution into investigative and indictment functions, the first time in 78 years.
Furthermore, the Seongnam scandal is one of five criminal cases connected to Lee, including election-related allegations from 2022. While the ruling did not implicate Lee directly, prosecutorial interference allegations continue to inflame political tensions across South Korea.
