South Korea's High‑profile Crime Investigation Agency struggles to fill staff

The High‑profile Crime Investigation Agency (중수청) is slated to begin operations in about two months. Legal experts warn that the new body must avoid repeating the staffing and organisational shortcomings that hampered the Anti‑Corruption Prosecutor's Office (공수처) during its first five years.

The earlier agency failed to meet its target of 25 prosecutors, experienced delayed appointment of its head, and saw a flood of applicants without sufficient long‑term staffing. To secure its independence and effectiveness, experts call for a swift, transparent appointment of a reputable chief, clear organisational charts, and rapid recruitment of experienced investigators. They stress that the agency, though housed under the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, must enjoy functional independence akin to the independent status granted to the 공수처.

Recommendations include publishing the agency’s structure and personnel quotas early, offering incentives to attract ace investigators, and ensuring the senior leadership enjoys broad professional credibility and public trust.