Defense Minister Suh Wook (left) and former Supreme Court Justice Kim So-young. (Ministry of National Defense) |
An Air Force master sergeant took her life in late May after her complaint had gone unanswered for months because of what her family claims is an “extensive cover-up” by the Air Force. The head of the Air Force has since resigned, taking responsibility for her death.
The outside panel of civilians, led by former Supreme Court Justice Kim So-young, will help ensure the military run a thorough and transparent investigation to bring anyone involved in a cover-up to justice, Defense Minister Suh Wook said.
It is the first time outside experts -- from legal circles, academia, media and civic groups -- have been brought in to sit on a military prosecution team.
The panel will be a steppingstone to building a new military culture that respects justice and human rights, Suh added.
By Choi Si-young (siyoungchoi@heraldcorp.com)