(EDITORIAL from Korea JoongAng Daily on May 5)

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(EDITORIAL from Korea JoongAng Daily on May 5)

Probe investigator's social media post sparks controversy

A special investigator with the second comprehensive special counsel probe has sparked controversy after posting parts of a suspect's interrogation record and his appointment certificate on social media. The investigator, a former lawyer, also wrote that gaining investigative experience would maximize his expertise in criminal cases and described the work as about five times more demanding than attending interrogations as defense counsel.

The incident has drawn criticism not only for exposing a lack of basic security awareness expected of an investigator but also for falling short of professional standards as a legal practitioner. Investigators working under a special counsel are typically not publicly identified, except for the independent counsel and assistant counsels leading the inquiry. This anonymity is meant to ensure impartiality and protect the integrity of the investigation.

In this case, however, the investigator voluntarily revealed his identity and disclosed portions of investigative material. The special counsel team said in a press briefing that it had imposed a one-month pay reduction as disciplinary action. Still, critics argue that the punishment is too lenient given the seriousness of the breach. They have called for a thorough investigation and stronger measures, including possible removal from investigative duties.

This is not the first time members of the second comprehensive special counsel have drawn controversy. Assistant counsel Kim Ji-mi appeared on a YouTube program run by Kim Eo-jun last month and discussed the progress of an ongoing investigation. Her remark that viewers might soon see "scenes they want to see" was criticized as inappropriate for someone involved in a sensitive probe.

In another case, assistant counsel Kwon Young-bin, who had overseen the Ssangbangwool remittance investigation involving North Korea, was replaced after it emerged that he had previously served as a lawyer in cases related to former Gyeonggi Vice Gov. Lee Hwa-young and former Ssangbangwool Vice Chairman Bang Yong-cheol. The disclosure raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

These incidents highlight the need to reassess the qualifications and conduct of personnel involved in the second comprehensive special counsel probe. The recent social media post, in particular, suggests an undue focus on building personal credentials rather than fulfilling public duties.

If external verification of their qualifications is limited, the probe must ensure strict internal screening to filter out unsuitable personnel. This responsibility is especially important given the political sensitivity surrounding the investigation.

Repeated controversies risk undermining public trust in the probe's findings. The second comprehensive special counsel probe was already launched amid political disputes, and further missteps could cast doubt on its credibility. Investigators must recognize that maintaining professionalism and confidentiality is essential not only for the success of the inquiry but also for preserving confidence in the justice system.

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