The Corruption Investigation Unit (CUI) of South Korea has initiated a search and seizure operation targeting the Supreme Prosecutor's Office in relation to the investigation of the travel ban imposed on former Deputy Minister Kim Hak-ki. This investigation is centered on allegations surrounding the 2019 incident when Kim was placed under an urgent travel ban while facing accusations of receiving illegal favors at a villa, which was seen as an abuse of prosecutorial power. Prosecutor Lee Gyu-won, who was part of the task force at the Supreme Prosecutor's Office, was indicted for this act back in April 2021 on charges of abuse of authority.

However, criticisms arose when the Supreme Court acquitted Lee and others involved last June, leading to discussions on whether the prior prosecutions indicated misuse of prosecutorial authority. The case has seen significant twists, as it raises broader implications regarding the integrity of prosecutorial practices in South Korea. Following the acquittal, influential political figures, including former Department of Justice officials, have faced allegations themselves, with accusations of falsifying official documents and disclosing confidential information made against investigative prosecutors.

This ongoing investigation not only reveals layers of complexity surrounding prosecutorial misconduct but also underscores the pressing issues of accountability in South Korea's legal system. As the situation develops, it highlights the intricate dynamics at play between political power, justice, and public trust in prosecutorial institutions.