In a veiled criticism of President Park Geun-hye, Kim Young-ran, the former top judge who initiated the influential anti-graft law drive in 2011, said leaders who take advantage of their law-breaking subordinates should be held responsible.

“Looking at the events in society nowadays, I think the law may require some radical thinking,” she said at the International Bar Association’s regional anti-corruption gathering in Seoul.

“I think corruption cases reappear because those who get elected with the help of subordinates’ illegal activities are not properly held responsible.”

Kim, former chief of the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission and former Supreme Court justice, added that measures should be taken against those leaders. 

Her words were made as a scandal engulfs President Park, who is suspected of letting her confidante Choi Soon-sil, a civilian, meddle in state affairs and use her influence to siphon off public and private funds.

Kim suggested the application of a joint liability provision against elected officials. “The responsibility lies with the person who did not control their close friend,” she added.

The former justice also commented on the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act -- often referred to as the Kim Young-ran Act -- that came into force on Sept. 28.

“Fear of violating the law seems to be prevalent in Korean society, but it is not to regulate every reception. It is to prevent public officials from getting advantages for free,” Kim said.

She also stressed that efforts to set proper guidelines should continue in order to successfully implement the law.

The anti-graft law bans government officials, journalists and teachers from offering and receiving meals worth over 30,000 won ($27), presents of over 50,000 won and monetary gifts of over 100,000 won.

By Jo He-rim (herim@heraldcorp.com)