Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup presided over a conference for military prosecutors from all branches of the service

Reviewed progress made a year after the enforcement of the revised Military Court Act

Will make responses in a way that reflects what people understand and care about

On July 5, Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup (second on right) makes opening remarks at a conference for military prosecutors held in the conference room of the Defense Ministry.

On the occasion of the first anniversary of the revised Military Court Act, the responses to major crimes such as illicit drug trafficking in the military were examined, and tasks for further development were discussed.

On July 5, The Defense Ministry held a conference for military prosecutors from all branches of the service. The conference, which took place in the conference room of the Defense Ministry building in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, was presided over by Minister Lee.

The meeting discussed achievements made a year after the enforcement of the revised Military Court Act, tasks related to the Defense Ministry and Prosecutors’ Offices of each military branch, as well as strict handling of major crimes such as leakage of military secrets in the barracks, child abuse, and stalking.

Minister Lee said, “One year after the enforcement of the revised Military Court Act, it is meaningful to review the operations of military prosecutors and discuss ways of handling major crimes.”

He urged the participants to make more efforts toward strict punishment for crimes such as drug trafficking in the barracks and leakage of military secrets, which undermine military discipline and benefit the enemy, as well as the protection of soldiers’ human rights.

The Defense Ministry and military prosecutors from all branches of service will consider the challenges and opinions discussed at the conference. The ministry plans to respond in a manner that reflects what people understand and care about through (i) strict punishment of drug incidents in the military and violations of the Military Secret Protection Act, (ii) active protection of child abuse and stalking victims, and (iii) confiscation of vehicles related to drinking and serious crimes. Moreover, continued efforts will be made to enhance citizens’ confidence in military prosecutors by developing a military prosecution policy, strengthening professionalism, and ensuring the protection of soldiers' human rights.

By Hyun-woo, Seo <lgiant61@dema.mi.kr>

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