South Korea orders review of crime agency chief’s public criticism

South Korea’s interior minister, Yoon Ho-joong, has ordered an inspection of Lim Eun-jeong, who leads the agency’s Gwangju office.

The agency was recently established as part of changes to the country’s criminal justice system.

Lim has publicly criticized Kim Ji-yong, the nominee to become its first chief, including over his past work as a prosecutor and his qualifications.

Yoon said her comments were unrelated to her duties and raised concern that she may have used her position for political activity.

He said the rules for government officials apply to her, as she is now a judicial police officer rather than a prosecutor.

The inspection will consider whether her remarks breached rules on political neutrality or conduct.

If it finds grounds for discipline, a committee under the prime minister will decide whether she should be punished.