SCIA chief attends second cabinet meeting amid opposition concerns over independence

Kim Ji-yong, the first leader of the Serious Crime Investigation Agency, participated in President Lee Jae Myung's cabinet meeting for a second time, joining acting Korean National Police Agency commissioner Kim Jong-chul and acting Prosecutor General Lee Jeong-hyun. The appearance sparked a heated parliamentary audit, with opposition members claiming that the presence of heads of investigative agencies undermines their independence.

Ruling party legislators countered that their attendance is essential for inter-agency coordination on state matters. Kim acknowledged the concerns and said he will decide on future participation after discussions with the interior ministry. President Lee responded on social media, labeling the opposition's stance as unconstitutional and beyond the president's legal authority.