On Tuesday, NIS chief Lee Byung-ho denied having used malware against “ordinary” citizens. The NIS has been under fire for allegedly bugging individuals by using malware purchased from an Italian contractor. The spy agency chief admitted the purchase of the malware but said it was used to monitor North Korean spies operating in South Korea.

Calling it a serious crime against the state, Moon also hinted that the party would also consider launching a parliamentary probe.

“It is desirable for the National Assembly to investigate the matter to assure the people, if the allegation raises any doubts,” he said.

With the opposition attempting to turn the public’s attention to the allegation, Justice Minister Kim Hyun-woong said the prosecution would consider launching an official probe after checking facts and credibility of the news reports that raised the allegation.

By Cho Chung-un (christory@heraldcorp.com)