The prosecution service in South Korea has implemented new internal guidelines that exclude prosecutors with histories of sexual misconduct from handling sexual offense cases and performing duties related to human rights protection. This change follows a recommendation made during the National Assembly's audit last year, indicating the need for such regulations to ensure fairness and prevent secondary harm to victims in cases of sexual violence. Specifically, any prosecutor or investigator who has been criminally charged, faced disciplinary action, or been involved in legal proceedings related to sexual offenses will now be disqualified from these roles.

Additionally, the guidelines also revised the operating framework for human rights protection officers, emphasizing that individuals in these positions must exhibit a high level of sexual awareness and ethical conduct. This decision reflects an increasing commitment to ensure that those entrusted with safeguarding human rights and conducting fair investigations are rigorously vetted. This adjustment mirrors similar actions taken by the police in 2022, which implemented regulations to prevent officers with a history of sexual misconduct from being assigned to sensitive roles involving women and children.

The implementation of these guidelines is seen as a response to public demands for greater accountability and a systemic review of how sexual misconduct cases are managed within the prosecution. As victims of sexual violence, such as the case of Kim Jung-won, have raised their voices against the injustices faced during legal proceedings, this step is an acknowledgment of those concerns and a move towards more robust protections for victims. The law ministry has formalized these adjustments to amend the operational rules governing human rights protections within the prosecution, endorsing these proactive measures aiming to enhance integrity and trust in the justice system.