S. Korea launches scaled-down prosecution, new investigation agency in major reform

South Korea has launched a major legal and institutional reform, featuring a scaled-down prosecution service alongside a newly established investigation agency. The restructuring initiative took effect in October, fundamentally altering the country's law enforcement and prosecutorial landscape.

The reform narrows the scope and responsibilities of the traditional prosecution service while introducing a specialized investigation body. This reorganization represents a significant shift in South Korea's approach to criminal investigations and state prosecutorial power.