The Marine Special Prosecutor's Office has extended the investigation period, which was originally until August 30, by 30 days. Consequently, the first investigation period of the Marine Special Prosecutor's Office has been extended until September 29.
On the 26th, Special Prosecutor Jeong Min-young noted during a morning briefing that "the special prosecutor investigation period has been extended by 30 days until September 29" and said, "I plan to report the reason for the extension to the National Assembly in writing."
Special Prosecutor Jeong stated, "Among the three special prosecutors, only our office has a problem where the maximum investigation period is defined as a short 30 days" and expressed hope that "if possible, we would like to conduct the investigation for the maximum of about 150 days, like the other special prosecutors."
Earlier, on the 21st, Special Prosecutor Jeong stated during a briefing, "There are still quite a few matters requiring analysis of seized items and additional investigations, and many individuals who need to be called in as witnesses and suspects remain." The special prosecutor has been conducting an investigation for 55 days since July 2 until now.
According to the Special Prosecutor Act, the investigation must be completed and a decision made on whether to file charges within 60 days from the day after the preparation period expires. However, after reporting in writing to the President and the National Assembly, the investigation period can be extended once by 30 days, and if that is still insufficient, it can be further extended by another 30 days with the President's approval.